bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hyers-ulam stability of exact second-order linear differential equations
Authors: Ghaemi Mohammad Bagher , Gordji Madjid Eshaghi , Alizadeh Badrkhan , Park Choonkil 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
In this article, we prove the Hyers-Ulam stability of exact second-order linear differential equations. As a consequence, we show the Hyers-Ulam stability of the following equations: second-order linear differential equation with constant coefficients, Euler differential equation, Hermite's differential equation, Cheybyshev's differential equation, and Legendre's differential equation. The result generalizes the main results of Jung and Min, and Li and Shen.

Mathematics Subject Classification (2010): 26D10; 34K20; 39B52; 39B82; 46B99.
NeuroD2 regulates the development of hippocampal mossy fiber synapses
Authors: Wilke Scott A , Hall Benjamin J , Antonios Joseph K , DeNardo Laura A , Otto Stefanie , Yuan Bo , Chen Fading , Robbins Elissa M , Tiglio Katie , Williams Megan E , Qiu Zilong , Biederer Thomas , Ghosh Anirvan 
Published: March 2012

Abstract

Background
The assembly of neural circuits requires the concerted action of both genetically determined and activity-dependent mechanisms. Calcium-regulated transcription may link these processes, but the influence of specific transcription factors on the differentiation of synapse-specific properties is poorly understood. Here we characterize the influence of NeuroD2, a calcium-dependent transcription factor, in regulating the structural and functional maturation of the hippocampal mossy fiber (MF) synapse.

Results
Using NeuroD2 null mice and in vivo lentivirus-mediated gene knockdown, we demonstrate a critical role for NeuroD2 in the formation of CA3 dendritic spines receiving MF inputs. We also use electrophysiological recordings from CA3 neurons while stimulating MF axons to show that NeuroD2 regulates the differentiation of functional properties at the MF synapse. Finally, we find that NeuroD2 regulates PSD95 expression in hippocampal neurons and that PSD95 loss of function in vivo reproduces CA3 neuron spine defects observed in NeuroD2 null mice.

Conclusion
These experiments identify NeuroD2 as a key transcription factor that regulates the structural and functional differentiation of MF synapses in vivo.
Short-term anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment elicits vasculogenic mimicry formation of tumors to accelerate metastasis
Authors: Xu Yuan , Li Qin , Li Xiao-Yu , Yang Qiu-Ya , Xu Wei-Wei , Liu Gao-Lin 
Published: March 2012

Abstract

Background
Antiangiogenic therapy is one of the most significant advances in anticancer treatment. The benefits of antiangiogenic therapies of late-stage cancers have been investigated but are still too limited.

Methods
We used an ovarian cancer model to test the effect of short-term bevacizumab treatment on metastasis as measured by bioluminescence. Western blotting and CD34-PAS dual staining were performed to assess hypoxia-inducible transcription factor-1α (HIF-1α) expression and vasculogenic mimicry(VM) formation. Cell viability was examined by a CCK8 assay.

Results
Bevacizumab demonstrated antitumor effects in models of ovarian cancer, but also accelerated metastasis together, with marked hypoxia and VM formation in mice receiving short-term therapy. Bevacizumab treatment did not affect SKOV3 cell viability and the amount of VM in three-dimensional culture.

Conclusion
These results suggest that antiangiogenic therapy may potentially influence the progression of metastatic disease, which has been linked to the hypoxic response and VM formation.
The fine-scale architecture of structural variants in 17 mouse genomes
Authors: Yalcin Binnaz , Wong Kim , Bhomra Amarjit , Goodson Martin , Keane Thomas M , Adams David J , Flint Jonathan 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Background
Accurate catalogs of structural variants (SVs) in mammalian genomes are necessary to elucidate the potential mechanisms that drive SV formation and to assess their functional impact. Next generation sequencing methods for SV detection are an advance on array-based methods, but are almost exclusively limited to four basic types: deletions, insertions, inversions and copy number gains.

Results
By visual inspection of 100 Mbp of genome to which next generation sequence data from 17 inbred mouse strains had been aligned, we identify and interpret 21 paired-end mapping patterns, which we validate by PCR. These paired-end mapping patterns reveal a greater diversity and complexity in SVs than previously recognized. In addition, Sanger-based sequence analysis of 4,176 breakpoints at 261 SV sites reveal additional complexity at approximately a quarter of structural variants analyzed. We find micro-deletions and micro-insertions at SV breakpoints, ranging from 1 to 107 bp, and SNPs that extend breakpoint micro-homology and may catalyze SV formation.

Conclusions
An integrative approach using experimental analyses to train computational SV calling is essential for the accurate resolution of the architecture of SVs. We find considerable complexity in SV formation; about a quarter of SVs in the mouse are composed of a complex mixture of deletion, insertion, inversion and copy number gain. Computational methods can be adapted to identify most paired-end mapping patterns.
Defining the molecular profile of planarian pluripotent stem cells using a combinatorial RNA-seq, RNA interference and irradiation approach
Authors: Solana Jordi , Kao Damian , Mihaylova Yuliana , Jaber-Hijazi Farah , Malla Sunir , Wilson Ray , Aboobaker Aziz 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Background
Planarian stem cells, or neoblasts, drive the almost unlimited regeneration capacities of freshwater planarians. Neoblasts are traditionally described by their morphological features and by the fact that they are the only proliferative cell type in asexual planarians. Therefore, they can be specifically eliminated by irradiation. Irradiation, however, is likely to induce transcriptome-wide changes in gene expression that are not associated with neoblast ablation. This has affected the accurate description of their specific transcriptomic profile.

Results
We introduce the use of Smed-histone-2B RNA interference (RNAi) for genetic ablation of neoblast cells in Schmidtea mediterranea as an alternative to irradiation. We characterize the rapid, neoblast-specific phenotype induced by Smed-histone-2B RNAi, resulting in neoblast ablation. We compare and triangulate RNA-seq data after using both irradiation and Smed-histone-2B RNAi over a time course as means of neoblast ablation. Our analyses show that Smed-histone-2B RNAi eliminates neoblast gene expression with high specificity and discrimination from gene expression in other cellular compartments. We compile a high confidence list of genes downregulated by both irradiation and Smed-histone-2B RNAi and validate their expression in neoblast cells. Lastly, we analyze the overall expression profile of neoblast cells.

Conclusions
Our list of neoblast genes parallels their morphological features and is highly enriched for nuclear components, chromatin remodeling factors, RNA splicing factors, RNA granule components and the machinery of cell division. Our data reveal that the regulation of planarian stem cells relies on posttranscriptional regulatory mechanisms and suggest that planarians are an ideal model for this understudied aspect of stem cell biology.
Secreted virulence factors and immune evasion in visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: Lambertz Ulrike , Silverman Judith Maxwell , Nandan Devki , McMaster W Robert , Clos Joachim , Foster Leonard J , Reiner Neil E 
Published: March 2012

ABSTRACTEvasion or subversion of host immune responses is a well-established paradigm in infection with visceralizing leishmania. In this review, we summarize current findings supporting a model in which leishmania target host regulatory molecules and pathways, such as the PTP SHP-1 and the PI3K/Akt signaling cascade, to prevent effective macrophage activation. Furthermore, we describe how virulence factors, secreted by leishmania, interfere with macrophage intracellular signaling. Finally, we discuss mechanisms of secretion and provide evidence that leishmania use a remarkably adept, exosome-based secretion mechanism to export and deliver effector molecules to host cells. In addition to representing a novel mechanism for trafficking of virulence factors across membranes, recent findings indicate that leishmania exosomes may have potential as vaccine candidates.
The multiple facets of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) during allergic inflammation and beyond
Authors: Roan Florence , Bell Bryan D , Stoklasek Thomas A , Kitajima Masayuki , Han Hongwei , Ziegler Steven F 
Published: March 2012

ABSTRACTOriginally shown to promote the growth and activation of B cells, TSLP is now known to have wide-ranging impacts on hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic cell lineages, including DCs, basophils, eosinophils, mast cells, CD4+, CD8+, and NK T cells, B cells, and epithelial cells. Whereas the role of TSLP in the promotion of TH2 responses has been studied extensively in the context of lung- and skin-specific allergic disorders, it is becoming increasingly clear that TSLP may impact multiple disease states within multiple organ systems, including the blockade of TH1/TH17 responses and the promotion of cancer and autoimmunity. This review will highlight recent advances in the understanding of TSLP signal transduction, as well as the role of TSLP in allergy, autoimmunity, and cancer. Importantly, these insights into the multifaceted roles of TSLP could potentially allow for novel, therapeutic manipulations of these disorders.
One-Pot Synthesis of Furans from Various Saccharides Using a Combination of Solid Acid and Base Catalysts
Authors: Tuteja Jaya , Nishimura Shun , Ebitani Kohki 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
One-pot synthesis of furans from various saccharides such as arabinose, rhamnose, and lactose were performed over solid acid and base catalysts. The combination of Amberlyst-15 and hydrotalcite catalysts showed successful activity for corresponding furans formation such as 2-furaldehyde (furfural), 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde (HMF), and 5-methyl-2-furaldehyde (MF) via one-pot synthesis including isomerization and dehydration reactions. Moreover, the acid–base pair catalysts were also found to display excellent activity for the transformation from mixed-sources of sugars to furans. It was indicated that the isomerization of saccharides and successive dehydration in the one-pot synthesis of furans will be a great approach in a biorefinery.
Advanced Finite Element Modelling of Flexible End-Plate Beam-to-Column Joints in Fire
Authors: Al-Jabri Khalifa , Al-Jahwari Farooq 
Published: March 2012

This paper presents a finite element analysis procedure developed to study the behavior of a flexible end-plate connection between steel beams and a column at elevated temperatures and generates temperature-rotation diagrams that describe the behavior of the connection. The analysis used a highly detailed three dimensional finite element model that is created using the commercial ABAQUS software. The steel connection properties are selected in a way that reflects commonly used connections in steel framed buildings.The results of the finite element model are calibrated and compared to the results of experimental fire tests conducted on similar connections. The results show that the predicted behavior of the joints is in a good agreement with actual behavior of the joints. A regression model is developed to describe the behavior of flexible end-plate joints in fire.
The Solid Solution CeAg
x
Zn11–x
(x ≤ 2.5)
Authors: Eul Matthias , Pöttgen Rainer 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Samples of the solid solution CeAg
x
Zn11–x
were prepared from the elements by high-frequency melting in sealed tantalum ampoules. The solid solution extends to about x ≈ 2.5. The samples crystallize with the tetragonal BaCd11 type structure, space group I41/amd. The structure of CeAg2.03Zn8.97 was refined from single crystal X-ray diffractometer data: a = 1079.5(2), c = 694.5(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0226, 385F
2 values, and 21 variables. Two of the three crystallographically independent zinc sites of the CeZn11 structure show Zn/Ag mixing: 73(2)% Ag + 27(2)% Zn on 4b and 16.2(8)% Ag + 83.8(8)% Zn on 32i. Temperature dependent susceptibility data on the CeAg1.5Zn9.5 sample showed Curie-Weiss paramagnetism and an experimental magnetic moment of 2.58 μ
B/Ce atom, indicating stable trivalent cerium. No magnetic ordering was evident down to 3 K.
A Novel Approach in Completing Unconventional Tight-Gas Condensate Wells Using Propellant Gas-Assist Perforating and Foam Matrix Acidizing: Case Study
Authors: Trehan Rakesh , Jones Norman , Kline Trace 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
After successful production from a few wells in a California field, two development/appraisal wells were drilled targeting the southwest flank of the structure. Based on experience with the offsets, it was expected that this sandstone formation would be fracture stimulated to mitigate formation damage.
Most of the wells in California have intervals ranging from 1,500 gross ft to ~600 net ft. Fracture stimulation or matrix acidizing are common stimulation techniques used on these types of wells. Fracture stimulation was attempted because of very low permeability but was not successful.
On the first well, several attempts were made to establish fracture initiation in different intervals; however, on each attempt, the fracturing pressure encountered was too high to safely continue the job. A fracture gradient of more than 1.1 psi/ft was estimated. After 20 days of unsuccessful attempts, the operator ceased fracture stimulation of the well, which was nearing the point of abandonment because producing oil or gas did not seem economically viable at this point.
After carefully studying the matrix rock, a gas-assisted perforating process followed by foamed matrix acidizing was recommended as an economical solution to produce the wells. This gas-assisted perforating process uses an extreme overbalanced (EOB) condition by using energized gas to simultaneously perforate and stimulate a well in a single intervention. During an EOB perforating application, wellbore pressures will exceed the fracture gradient for several seconds to minutes while injecting wellbore and tubing fluids at high rates.
This paper presents a case study of two unconventional tight-gas condensate wells where using a gas-assisted perforating process followed by foamed acidizing provided successful stimulation. The design considerations, stimulation technique, and job details are discussed.
Associations between Plasma Cytokines and Depressive Mood in Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Kim Seon-Young , Kim Jae-Min , Kim Sung-Wan , Shin Il-Seon , Park Min-Ho , Yoon Jung-Han , Choi Chan , Yoon Jin-Sang 
Published: March 2012

Objective: The few studies on the associations between cytokines and depressive mood in patients with cancer have produced conflicting results. This study investigated the associations between plasma cytokines and depressive mood in patients with breast cancer using a large panel of pro-inflammatory, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating cytokines. Methods: We recruited 273 hospitalized patients with breast cancer awaiting surgery. Preoperative plasma samples were obtained for cytokine analysis, including pro-inflammatory (interleukin [IL]-2, IL-12, interferon [IFN]-γ, and tumor necrosis factor [TNF-α]), anti-inflammatory (IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13), and immune-modulating (granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor [GM-CSF]) cytokines. Depressive mood was measured using the Montgomery—Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) at 2–5 days postoperatively, when the patients could cooperate. Covariates included various demographic and clinical characteristics. The association between the MADRS score and each cytokine level was estimated using linear regression models. Results: Cytokine levels were significantly inter-correlated. Depressive mood was associated with lower levels of pro-inflammatory (IL-2, IL-12, and TNF-α), anti-inflammatory (IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13), and immune-modulating (GM-CSF) cytokines independent of potential covariates such as living area or functional level. Conclusions: The findings suggest that depressive mood is associated with a generally decreased inflammatory reaction or immune function in patients with breast cancer.
Effects of Depression and Social Support on Comprehension and Recall of Informed Consent Information among Parkinson Disease Patients and Their Caregivers
Authors: Teng Ellen J. , Petersen Nancy J. , Hartman Christine , Matthiesen Ellen , Kallen Michael 
Published: March 2012

Objective: Relatively little attention has focused on the impact of psychiatric conditions on human subjects' comprehension of consent information. The purpose of this randomized study was to determine whether depression affects comprehension and recall of informed consent information among persons with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers and to evaluate the effects of support on comprehension and recall during the consent process. Method: Comprehension and recall of information were assessed using a modified version of the Modified Quality of Informed Consent Questionnaire, taken 1 week and 1 month later, and scored using a consensus-based algorithm. Participants also completed the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Data analyses were conducted on 129 patients and caregivers ( t-tests, Fisher's exact tests, and ANCOVAs). Results: T-tests showed no significant differences in comprehension and recall between depressed and nondepressed participants at 1 week and 1 month. However, ANCOVA showed patients with a support person present had significantly higher comprehension and recall at 1 week but not at 1 month compared with controls. Caregivers present with a patient had lower comprehension/recall than those without a patient present ( p = 0.02). Conclusions: Having a support person present during the informed consent process helps depressed PD patients better retain information in the short term, but effects diminish over the long term. Implications for interventions will be discussed.
The Effect of Prayer on Depression and Anxiety: Maintenance of Positive Influence One Year after Prayer Intervention
Authors: Boelens Peter A. , Reeves Roy R. , Replogle William H. , Koenig Harold G. 
Published: March 2012

Objective: To investigate whether the effect of direct contact person-to-person prayer on depression, anxiety, and positive emotions is maintained after 1 year. Design, Setting, and Participants: One-year follow-up of subjects with depression and anxiety who had undergone prayer intervention consisting of six weekly 1-hour prayer sessions conducted in an office setting. Subjects (44 women) completed Hamilton Rating Scales for Depression and Anxiety, Life Orientation Test, and Daily Spiritual Experiences Scale after finishing a series of six prayer sessions and then again a month later in an initial study. The current study reassessed those subjects with the same measures 1 year later. One-way repeated measures ANOVAs were used to compare findings pre-prayer, immediately following the six prayer sessions, and 1 month and again 1 year following prayer interventions. Results: Evaluations post-prayer at 1 month and 1 year showed significantly less depression and anxiety, more optimism, and greater levels of spiritual experience than did the baseline (pre-prayer) measures ( p < 0.01 in all cases). Conclusions: Subjects maintained significant improvements for a duration of at least 1 year after the final prayer session. Direct person-to-person prayer may be useful as an adjunct to standard medical care for patients with depression and anxiety. Further research in this area is indicated.
The Effects of Long-Term Oral Benfotiamine Supplementation on Peripheral Nerve Function and Inflammatory Markers in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Fraser David A. , Diep Lien M. , Hovden Inger Anette , Nilsen Kristian B. , Sveen Kari Anne , Seljeflot Ingebjørg , Hanssen Kristian F. 
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE
To study the effects of long-term oral benfotiamine supplementation on peripheral nerve function and soluble inflammatory markers in patients with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
The study randomly assigned 67 patients with type 1 diabetes to receive 24-month benfotiamine (300 mg/day) or placebo supplementation. Peripheral nerve function and levels of soluble inflammatory variables were assessed at baseline and at 24 months.

RESULTS
Fifty-nine patients completed the study. Marked increases in whole-blood concentrations of thiamine and thiamine diphosphate were found in the benfotiamine group (both P &lt; 0.001 vs. placebo). However, no significant differences in changes in peripheral nerve function or soluble inflammatory biomarkers were observed between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS
Our findings suggest that high-dose benfotiamine (300 mg/day) supplementation over 24 months has no significant effects upon peripheral nerve function or soluble markers of inflammation in patients with type 1 diabetes.
Risk factors for urate uroliths in cats
Authors: Albasan Hasan , Osborne Carl A. , Lulich Jody P. , Lekcharoensuk Chalermpol 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Objective—To identify demographic factors associated with urate urolithiasis in cats and determine whether the rate of urolith submission to a laboratory had changed over time.
Design—Case series and case-control study.
Animals—Cases consisted of 5,072 cats with urate uroliths submitted to the Minnesota Urolith Center between January 1, 1981, and December 31, 2008. Controls consisted of 437,228 cats without urinary tract diseases identified in records of the Veterinary Medical Database during the same period.
Procedures—Information on cat breed, age, sex, reproductive status, and location of uroliths was used to identify risk factors. Changes in annual urolith submission rates were evaluated.
Results—Purebred cats had significantly higher odds of developing urate uroliths than did cats of mixed breeding (reference group). On the other hand, cats of the Abyssinian, American Shorthair, Himalayan, Manx, and Persian breeds had significantly lower odds of developing urate uroliths than did mixed breeds. Neutered cats were 12 times as likely to develop urate uroliths as were sexually intact cats. Cats in all age groups had significantly increased odds of developing urate uroliths, compared with cats < 1 year of age (reference group). Cats ≥ 4 but < 7 years of age had the highest odds of all groups and were 51 times as likely to develop urate uroliths as were cats < 1 year of age. Urolith submission rates did not change significantly with time.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Findings of this study suggested that the typical cat with urate uroliths was a purebred neutered cat, 4 to 7 years old, with uroliths in the bladder or urethra. This information may be helpful in predicting mineral composition of uroliths in vivo. However, no conclusions can be made regarding cause-and-effect relationships.
Supervisory fault tolerant control with integrated fault detection and isolation: A switched system approach
Authors: Yang Hao , Jiang Bin , Cocquempot Vincent , Lu Lingli 
Published: March 2012

Supervisory fault tolerant control with integrated fault detection and isolation: A switched system approachThis paper focuses on supervisory fault tolerant control design for a class of systems with faults ranging over a finite cover. The proposed framework is based on a switched system approach, and relies on a supervisory switching within a family of pre-computed candidate controllers without individual fault detection and isolation schemes. Each fault set can be accommodated either by one candidate controller or by a set of controllers under an appropriate switching law. Two aircraft examples are included to illustrate the efficiency of the proposed method.