Input sequence estimation and blind channel identification in HF communication

A new algorithm is proposed for reliable communication over HF tropospheric links in the presence of rapid channel variations. In the proposed approach, using fractionally space channel outputs, sequential estimation of channel characteristics and input sequence is performed by utilizing subspace tracking and Kalman filtering. Simulation based comparisons with the existing algorithms show that the proposed approaches significantly improve the performance of the communication system and enable us to utilize HF communication in bad conditions

Constitutive expression of SlMX1 gene improves fruit yield and quality, health-promoting compounds, fungal resistance and delays ripening in transgenic tomato plants

Tomato is one of the major economically domesticated crops, and it is extensively used in different ways and purposes worldwide. Cell metabolism is the central core of all the biological processes to sustain life including cell growth, differentiation, maintenance, and response to environmental stress. To evaluate how genetic engineering can improve tomato fruit metabolome, the transcriptomic and metabolomic datasets of two transgenic tomatoes (SlMX1 overexpression and RNAi lines) have been compared with wild-type. The combined results demonstrated that the constitutive expression of SlMX1 not only increased trichome formation, carotenoids, and terpenoids as has been stated in several studies, but has also up- and down-regulated the expression of multiple genes related to cell growth (cell wall turnover), primary (carbohydrates, vitamins, and phytohormones), and secondary (phenylpropanoids, carotenoids, and terpenoids) metabolism, cell signaling, and stress responses. These changes in gene expression due to the constitutive expression of SlMX1 promote the most important agroeconomic traits such as fruit yield and quality, biosynthesis of health-promoting phytochemicals (including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and anthocyanins), and finally, activate resistance to Botrytis cinerea and repress the expression of over-ripening-related genes, thus extending the fruit shelf-life. In conclusion, the traits improvement achieved by SlMX1 overexpression can be harnessed in molecular breeding programs to engineer fruit size and yield, induce health-promoting secondary metabolites, promote fungal resistance, and finally extend the fruit shelf-life.Xunta de Galicia | Ref. ED431E 2018/07Xunta de Galicia | Ref. ED431D2017/18Agencia Estatal de Investigación | Ref. EQC2019-006178-

Trimethoxylated halogenated chalcones as dual inhibitors of mao-b and bace-1 for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders

Six halogenated trimethoxy chalcone derivatives (CH1–CH6) were synthesized and spec-trally characterized. The compounds were further evaluated for their inhibitory potential against monoamine oxidases (MAOs) and β-secretase (BACE-1). Six compounds inhibited MAO-B more effectively than MAO-A, and the 2′,3′,4′-methoxy moiety in CH4–CH6 was more effective for MAO-B inhibition than the 2′,4′,6′-methoxy moiety in CH1–CH3. Compound CH5 most potently inhibited MAO-B, with an IC50 value of 0.46 µM, followed by CH4 (IC50 = 0.84 µM). In 2′,3′,4′-methoxy derivatives (CH4-CH6), the order of inhibition was –Br in CH5 >-Cl in CH4 >-F in CH6 at the para-position in ring B of chalcone. CH4 and CH5 were selective for MAO-B, with selectivity index (SI) values of 15.1 and 31.3, respectively, over MAO-A. CH4 and CH5 moderately inhibited BACE-1 with IC50 values of 13.6 and 19.8 µM, respectively. When CH4 and CH5 were assessed for their cell viability studies on the normal African Green Monkey kidney cell line (VERO) using MTT assays, it was noted that both compounds were found to be safe, and only a slightly toxic effect was observed in concentrations above 200 µg/mL. CH4 and CH5 decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels of VERO cells treated with H2 O2, indicating both compounds retained protective effects on the cells by antioxidant activities. All compounds showed high blood brain barrier permeabilities analyzed by a parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA). Molecular docking and ADME prediction of the lead compounds provided more insights into the rationale behind the binding and the CNS drug likeness. From non-test mutagenicity and cardiotoxicity studies, CH4 and CH5 were non-mutagenic and non-/weak-cardiotoxic. These results suggest that CH4 and CH5 could be considered candidates for the cure of neurological dysfunctions

The CO2-dependence of Brucella ovis and Brucella abortus biovars is caused by defective carbonic anhydrases

Brucella bacteria cause brucellosis, a major zoonosis whose control requires efficient diagnosis and vaccines. Identification of classical Brucella spp. has traditionally relied on phenotypic characterization, including surface antigens and 5¿10% CO2 necessity for growth (CO2-dependence), a trait of Brucella ovis and most Brucella abortus biovars 1¿4 strains. Although molecular tests are replacing phenotypic methods, CO2-dependence remains of interest as it conditions isolation and propagation and reflects Brucella metabolism, an area of active research. Here, we investigated the connection of CO2-dependence and carbonic anhydrases (CA), the enzymes catalyzing the hydration of CO2 to the bicarbonate used by anaplerotic and biosynthetic carboxylases. Based on the previous demonstration that B. suis carries two functional CAs (CAI and CAII), we analyzed the CA sequences of CO2-dependent and -independent brucellae and spontaneous mutants. The comparisons strongly suggested that CAII is not functional in CO2-dependent B. abortus and B. ovis, and that a modified CAII sequence explains the CO2-independent phenotype of spontaneous mutants. Then, by mutagenesis and heterologous plasmid complementation and chromosomal insertion we proved that CAI alone is enough to support CO2-independent growth of B. suis in rich media but not of B. abortus in rich media or B. suis in minimal media. Finally, we also found that insertion of a heterologous active CAII into B. ovis reverted the CO2-dependence but did not alter its virulence in the mouse model. These results allow a better understanding of central aspects of Brucella metabolism and, in the case of B. ovis, provide tools for large-scale production of diagnostic antigens and vaccines

Channel assignment of microcellular mobile radio networks

This paper addresses the analytical and simulation modeling of non overlapping microcells with both non-prioritized and prioritized handover schemes. The network performance is analyzed in terms of the analytical results and simulation model using various performance criteria. A computer simulation is carried out in order to evaluate the accuracy of the analytical model. We also present the numerical and simulation results of premature termination probability and non-completion probability as well as channel utilization for the overlapping scheme in comparison with that of non- overlapping one.Scopu

Preparation and Evaluation of Orodispersible Tablets Containing Hydroxylbutyl-β-Cyclodextrin-Simvastatin Solid Dispersion

Purpose: To formulate simvastatin orodispersible tablets with high dissolution rate and enhanced bioavailability. Methods: Simvastatin solid dispersions in β- cyclodextrin, hydroxylpropyl-β-cyclodextrin, and hydroxylbutyl-β-cyclodextrin were prepared in different drug: polymer ratios by kneading and solvent evaporation methods. Compatibility was investigated by Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) Based on the results of solubility studies, the most suitable solid dispersion was selected and formulated into orodispersible tablets using Emcosoy and K-polacrillin as superdisintegrants, and mannitol and Pullulan as diluents. The tablets were evaluated for wetting and disintegration times, water absorption, and in vtro dissolution. Results: Increase in drug solubility was dependent on polymer type, concentration and preparation method. Simvastatin-hydroxylbutyl-β-cyclodextrin solid dispersion mixture prepared in 1:2 drug: polymer ratio by solvent evaporation method had a higher solubility than other dispersions. DSC and FTIR indicated the formation of solid dispersion without chemical interaction between simvastatin and polymer. Orodispersible tablet prepared with Emcosoy and Pullulan showed least wetting and disintegration times (20 and 35 s, respectively), fastest water sorption rate, and the highest dissolution rate (100 % after 20 min). Conclusion: Orodispersible tablets prepared with Emcosoy as superdisintegratnt and Pullulan as diluents and containig simvastatin solid dispersion in hydroxylbutyl-β-cyclodextrin provides optimum water solubility and hence, drug bioavailability

Glucosamine-paracetamol spray-dried solid dispersions with maximized intrinsic dissolution rate, bioavailability and decreased levels of in vivo toxic metabolites

Ahmed Mahmoud Abdelhaleem Ali,1,2 Ahmed Khames,1,2 Majed Mansour Alrobaian,1 Mohammad Hamaidi,3 Mohammed AS Abourehab4,5 1Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 2Department of Pharmaceutics, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt; 3Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 4Department of Pharmaceutics, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 5Department of Pharmaceutics, Minia University, Minia, Egypt Purpose: This study is aimed at preparing and testing physicochemical, pharmacokinetic and levels of toxic metabolites of paracetamol and glucosamine solid dispersions intended for multiple deliveries via the parenteral or per oral route. Methods: Solid dispersions were prepared using the spray drying technique at different molar ratios of paracetamol and glucosamine. Characterization of the solid dispersions was carried out using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), equilibrium solubility and intrinsic dissolution rate. In vivo pharmacokinetics and toxic metabolites of the prepared dispersions were evaluated and compared to those of pure drugs and physical mixtures. Results: Instant water solubility and more than 7-fold increase in dissolution rate led to significantly high plasma drug concentration (>6.5-fold) compared to paracetamol alone. More than 2-fold increase in area under the curve from 0 to 24 h from the dispersions was noticed on the third day of oral dosing to animals. Lower number and concentration followed by the complete disappearance of toxic pathway metabolites were observed on second and third days of dosing with solid dispersions and physical mixtures, respectively. Conclusions: The spray-dried dispersions support safer and more effective delivery of multiple doses of paracetamol, leading to an acceleration of its analgesic actions. Synergism between the analgesic actions of paracetamol and joint protective actions of glucosamine in this combination is expected to facilitate effective treatment of persistent pain-related illnesses such as osteoarthritis. Keywords: glucosamine, paracetamol, pharmacokinetics, reduced hepatotoxicity, solid dispersions, spray dryin

Efficient Microstrip Diplexer Employing a New Structure of Dual-Mode Bandpass Filter

In this paper, a highly efficient design for microstrip diplexer employing a new configuration of dual-mode squared shape bandpass filters is introduced. The proposed diplexer consists of two dual-mode bandpass filters (BPFs), a matching network, which is utilized to ensure that the two BPFs and the antenna port are properly matched resulting in good isolation between the transmitter (Tx) and the receiver (Rx) branches. For the proposed BPFs, the transmission zeros of each BPF are adjusted to the nearest passband center frequency, which makes them very selective to achieve high isolation between the Tx and Rx frequencies. This also provides a low-frequency space ratio and low insertion loss. The proposed diplexer improves the channel isolation, bandwidth with compact size of . Based on this structure, the proposed diplexer has good insertion losses of about  and  at transmit frequency  and receive frequency , respectively. The achieved fractional bandwidth is  at  and  at . The achieved simulated isolation levels are  and  for Tx and Rx frequencies, respectively. The proposed diplexer is useful for several wireless communication applications such as WLAN, GPS and global mobile system (GMS)

CDX2 gene expression in acute lymphoblastic leukemia

CDX genes are classically known as regulators of axial elongation during early embryogenesis. An unsuspected role for CDX genes has been revealed during hematopoietic development. The CDX gene family member CDX2 belongs to the most frequent aberrantly expressed proto-oncogenes in human acute leukemias and is highly leukemogenic in experimental models. We used reversed transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to determine the expression level of CDX2 gene in 30 pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) at diagnosis and 30 healthy volunteers. ALL patients were followed up to detect minimal residual disease (MRD) on days 15 and 42 of induction. We found that CDX2 gene was expressed in 50% of patients and not expressed in controls. Associations between gene expression and different clinical and laboratory data of patients revealed no impact on different findings. With follow up, we could not confirm that CDX2 expression had a prognostic significance