bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Institutions, Human Capital, and Development
Authors: Acemoglu Daron , Gallego Francisco A. , Robinson James A.
Published: August 2014

In this article, we revisit the relationship among institutions, human capital, and development. We argue that empirical models that treat institutions and human capital as exogenous are misspecified, both because of the usual omitted variable bias problems and because of differential measurement error in these variables, and that this misspecification is at the root of the very large returns of human capital, about four to five times greater than that implied by micro (Mincerian) estimates, found in the previous literature. Using cross-country and cross-regional regressions, we show that when we focus on historically determined differences in human capital and control for the effect of institutions, the impact of institutions on long-run development is robust, whereas the estimates of the effect of human capital are much diminished and become consistent with micro estimates. Using historical and cross-country regression evidence, we also show that there is no support for the view that differences in the human capital endowments of early European colonists have been a major factor in the subsequent institutional development of former colonies.
Financing Old Age Dependency
Authors: Nishiyama Shinichi , Smetters Kent
Published: August 2014

Baby boomers are now retiring in large numbers, and most do not have enough assets of their own to finance retirement. Social insurance programs help baby boomers afford retirement, but these programs are substantially underfunded. Reforming these institutions earlier will produce fewer distortions than continued delays. Several options also exist for helping households prepare for their own retirement: improving financial literacy, more opt-out defaults, better guidance about the value of delaying retirement, better guidance about delaying the claiming of social security benefits, improved estimation of out-of-pocket medical costs, and understanding the incentives facing their financial advisors. Some of these options are likely to be more effective than others.
Dynamics and Resilience of Rangelands and Pastoral Peoples Around the Globe
Authors: Reid Robin S. , Fernández-Giménez María E. , Galvin Kathleen A.
Published: August 2014

Rangelands cover more of Earth's land surface than any other type of land. They have variable and harsh climates, are sparsely populated and remote from markets, produce significant quantities of livestock, and are mostly used and managed in common. Under this already unpredictable and harsh climate, pastoral peoples and rangelands face new and accelerating political, economic, and climatic stresses that challenge their coupled resilience and ability to adapt. In response, pastoralists are creating new ways to manage rangelands through conservancies and community-based institutions on state, common, and private land. In this review, we focus on recent advances in our understanding of rangeland social-ecological systems, as well as on the causes and consequences of change in these systems. We then explore how pastoral peoples, governments, and businesses are responding to these changes to build resilience to sustain both pastoralism and rangelands. We close with a description of unresolved issues, challenges, and questions for the future.
Factors Underlying Restricted Crossover Localization in Barley Meiosis
Authors: Higgins James D. , Osman Kim , Jones Gareth H. , Franklin F. Chris H.
Published: August 2014

Meiotic recombination results in the formation of cytological structures known as chiasmata at the sites of genetic crossovers (COs). The formation of at least one chiasma/CO between homologous chromosome pairs is essential for accurate chromosome segregation at the first meiotic division as well as for generating genetic variation. Although DNA double-strand breaks, which initiate recombination, are widely distributed along the chromosomes, this is not necessarily reflected in the chiasma distribution. In many species there is a tendency for chiasmata to be distributed in favored regions along the chromosomes, whereas in others, such as barley and some other grasses, chiasma localization is extremely pronounced. Localization of chiasma to the distal regions of barley chromosomes restricts the genetic variation available to breeders. Studies reviewed herein are beginning to provide an explanation for chiasma localization in barley. Moreover, they suggest a potential route to manipulating chiasma distribution that could be of value to plant breeders.
Small RNAs: A New Paradigm in Plant-Microbe Interactions
Authors: Weiberg Arne , Wang Ming , Bellinger Marschal , Jin Hailing
Published: August 2014

A never-ending arms race drives coevolution between pathogens and hosts. In plants, pathogen attacks invoke multiple layers of host immune responses. Many pathogens deliver effector proteins into host cells to suppress host immunity, and many plants have evolved resistance proteins to recognize effectors and trigger robust resistance. Here, we discuss findings on noncoding small RNAs (sRNAs) from plants and pathogens, which regulate host immunity and pathogen virulence. Recent discoveries have unveiled the role of noncoding sRNAs from eukaryotic pathogens and bacteria in pathogenicity in both plant and animal hosts. The discovery of fungal sRNAs that are delivered into host cells to suppress plant immunity added sRNAs to the list of pathogen effectors. Similar to protein effector genes, many of these sRNAs are generated from transposable element (TE) regions, which are likely to contribute to rapidly evolving virulence and host adaptation. We also discuss RNA silencing that occurs between organisms.
Protein Kinases in Plant-Pathogenic Fungi: Conserved Regulators of Infection
Authors: Turrà David , Segorbe David , Di Pietro Antonio
Published: August 2014

Phytopathogenic fungi have evolved an amazing diversity of infection modes and nutritional strategies, yet the signaling pathways that govern pathogenicity are remarkably conserved. Protein kinases (PKs) catalyze the reversible phosphorylation of proteins, regulating a variety of cellular processes. Here, we present an overview of our current understanding of the different classes of PKs that contribute to fungal pathogenicity on plants and of the mechanisms that regulate and coordinate PK activity during infection-related development. In addition to the well-studied PK modules, such as MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) and cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate)-PKA (protein kinase A) cascades, we also discuss new PK pathways that have emerged in recent years as key players of pathogenic development and disease. Understanding how conserved PK signaling networks have been recruited during the evolution of fungal pathogenicity not only advances our knowledge of the highly elaborate infection process but may also lead to the development of novel strategies for the control of plant disease.
Beyond Simple Models of Self-Control to Circuit-Based Accounts of Adolescent Behavior
Authors: Casey B. J.
Published: August 2014

Adolescence is the transition from childhood to adulthood that begins around the onset of puberty and ends with relative independence from the parent. This developmental period is one when an individual is probably stronger, of higher reasoning capacity, and more resistant to disease than ever before, yet when mortality rates increase by 200%. These untimely deaths are not due to disease but to preventable deaths associated with adolescents putting themselves in harm's way (e.g., accidental fatalities). We present evidence that these alarming health statistics are in part due to diminished self-control—the ability to inhibit inappropriate desires, emotions, and actions in favor of appropriate ones. Findings of adolescent-specific changes in self-control and underlying brain circuitry are considered in terms of how evolutionarily based biological constraints and experiences shape the brain to adapt to the unique intellectual, physical, sexual, and social challenges of adolescence.
Hyaluronan and RHAMM in Wound Repair and the “Cancerization” of Stromal Tissues
Authors: Tolg Cornelia , McCarthy James B. , Yazdani Arjang , Turley Eva A.
Published: August 2014

Tumors and wounds share many similarities including loss of tissue architecture, cell polarity and cell differentiation, aberrant extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling (Ballard et al., 2006) increased inflammation, angiogenesis, and elevated cell migration and proliferation. Whereas these changes are transient in repairing wounds, tumors do not regain tissue architecture but rather their continued progression is fueled in part by loss of normal tissue structure. As a result tumors are often described as wounds that do not heal. The ECM component hyaluronan (HA) and its receptor RHAMM have both been implicated in wound repair and tumor progression. This review highlights the similarities and differences in their roles during these processes and proposes that RHAMM-regulated wound repair functions may contribute to “cancerization” of the tumor microenvironment.
Infection Related Glomerulonephritis Associated withStaphylococcus epidermidisin the Absence of Prosthetic Material
Authors: Mohandes Samer , Obole Eshetu , Satoskar Anjali , Polenakovik Hari
Published: August 2014

We report a case of a 72-year-old diabetic male who developed infection-related glomerulonephritis (IRGN) in the setting of severeStaphylococcus epidermidisinfection. He required renal replacement therapy for 6 weeks, but had full recovery of his kidney function with aggressive treatment of the infection. While this pathogen has been previously implicated as the cause of shunt nephritis, it is exceptionally rare to be associated with IRGN in the absence of a shunt or other prosthetic material.
Some Properties for an Integral Operator Defined by Generalized Hypergeometric Function
Authors: Aldawish Ibtisam , Darus Maslina
Published: August 2014

We define a new general integral operator for meromorphic functions involving the generalized hypergeometric function. Furthermore, we study the characterization and other properties for this operator.
High-Risk Acute Coronary Syndrome in a Patient with Coronary Subclavian Steal Syndrome Secondary to Critical Subclavian Artery Stenosis
Authors: Fanari Zaher , Abraham Niksad , Hammami Sumaya , Qureshi Wasif A.
Published: August 2014

Patients with multivessel coronary artery disease are more likely to have extensive atherosclerosis that involves other major arteries. Critical subclavian artery (SCA) stenosis can result in coronary subclavian steal syndrome that may present as recurrent ischemia and even myocardial infarction in patients with coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). In patients with concomitant severe native coronary disease, occluded saphenous venous grafts (SVG) to other arteries, percutaneous intervention on critical subclavian artery (SCA) stenosis that will compromise the blood flow to left internal mammary graft (LIMA) and left anterior descending (LAD) artery will be a high-risk procedure and may be associated with cardiogenic shock, especially in patients with preexisting ischemic cardiomyopathy. The use of percutaneous left ventricular (LV) assist device like Impella will offer better hemodynamic support and coronary perfusion and therefore results in decreased myocardial damage, maximized residual cardiac function, and lower incidence of cardiogenic shock.
Time‐Frequency Fault Feature Extraction for Rolling Bearing Based on the Tensor Manifold Method
Authors: Wang Fengtao , Chen Shouhai , Sun Jian , Yan Dawen , Wang Lei , Zhang Lihua
Published: August 2014

Rolling‐bearing faults can be effectively reflected using time‐frequency characteristics. However, there are inevitable interference and redundancy components in the conventional time‐frequency characteristics. Therefore, it is critical to extract the sensitive parameters that reflect the rolling‐bearing state from the time‐frequency characteristics to accurately classify rolling‐bearing faults. Thus, a new tensor manifold method is proposed. First, we apply the Hilbert‐Huang transform (HHT) to rolling‐bearing vibration signals to obtain the HHT time‐frequency spectrum, which can be transformed into the HHT time‐frequency energy histogram. Then, the tensor manifold time‐frequency energy histogram is extracted from the traditional HHT time‐frequency spectrum using the tensor manifold method. Five time‐frequency characteristic parameters are defined to quantitatively depict the failure characteristics. Finally, the tensor manifold time‐frequency characteristic parameters and probabilistic neural network (PNN) are combined to effectively classify the rolling‐bearing failure samples. Engineering data are used to validate the proposed method. Compared with traditional HHT time‐frequency characteristic parameters, the information redundancy of the time‐frequency characteristics is greatly reduced using the tensor manifold time‐frequency characteristic parameters and different rolling‐bearing fault states are more effectively distinguished when combined with the PNN.
Material Weakening of Slip Zone Soils Induced by Water Level Fluctuation in the Ancient Landslides of Three Gorges Reservoir
Authors: Jiao Yu-Yong , Song Liang , Tang Hui-Ming , Li Yun-An
Published: August 2014

This experimental study investigated the effect of repeated wetting and drying on the reduction of slip zone soils taken from the Huangtupo landslide in the Three Gorges Reservoir, China. The variation process of the physical property and substance composition of the slip zone soils under the wetting-drying cycles was studied through liquid and plastic limit test and X-ray diffraction test. The results indicate that (1) the shearing strength of the slip zone soil dramatically decreased after one wetting-drying cycle and then gradually decreased until reaching a relatively stable state at the fourth cycle; (2) the plasticity index of the slip zone soil varied with increasing number of cycles and a variation process opposite to that of the strength value was observed; and (3) the clay mineral content in the slip zone soil increased and the calcite and quartz contents relatively decreased with increasing number of cycles. The variations in the plasticity index of the slip zone soil, as well as the increase in its clay mineral content, play important roles in the strength reduction. The results of this study provide a foundation for revealing the deformation and damage mechanism of landslides in reservoir banks.
“Silent Voices”: A Description of Views and Attitudes of Health Professionals towards Reproduction by HIV Positive People
Authors: Ndlovu Vezumuzi
Published: August 2014

Objective. The role of health professionals in the decision making process of patients is usually heard or seen from the perspective of the patients. This paper gives the usually silent and invisible health professionals voice and visibility. It describes their views and attitudes towards reproduction by couples who are HIV positive and attempts to understand their perspectives. Methods. In-depth interviews were conducted with twelve health professionals at an opportunistic infections clinic. Transcribed interviews were analysed using the grounded approach to identify patterns and themes concerning views and attitudes of health professionals towards reproduction by HIV positive people. Results. The study found that most health professionals generally had a negative attitude towards childbearing by HIV positive couples. Their views and approaches on the issue were based mainly on biomedical considerations. The main discourses on childbearing that emerged from the study were the conditional choice, the antichildbearing, and the prorights. Conclusion. Most of the health professionals interviewed tend to take a generally negative stance towards reproduction by people with HIV/AIDS. There is a need for a clear set of guidelines for health professionals (HPs) on how to deal with HIV positive people who may desire to reproduce.
Organizing and Querying the Big Sensing Data with Event-Linked Network in the Internet of Things
Authors: Sun Yunchuan , Yan Hongli , Zhang Junsheng , Xia Ye , Wang Shenling , Bie Rongfang , Tian Yingjie
Published: August 2014

Massive sensing data are generated continuously in the Internet of Things. How to organize and how to query the big sensing data are big challenges for intelligent applications. This paper studies the organization of big sensing data with event-linked network ( ELN) model, where events are regarded as primary units for organizing data and links are used to represent the semantic associations among events. Several different types of queries on the event-linked network are also explored, which are different from queries on traditional relational database. We use an instance of smart home to show the effectiveness and efficiency of organization and query approaches based on the event-linked network.
Strong Convergence of a Unified General Iteration fork-Strictly Pseudononspreading Mapping in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Wen Dao-Jun , Chen Yi-An , Tang Yan
Published: August 2014

We introduce a unified general iterative method to approximate a fixed point ofk-strictly pseudononspreading mapping. Under some suitable conditions, we prove that the iterative sequence generated by the proposed method converges strongly to a fixed point of ak-strictly pseudononspreading mapping with an idea of mean convergence, which also solves a class of variational inequalities as an optimality condition for a minimization problem. The results presented in this paper may be viewed as a refinement and as important generalizations of the previously known results announced by many other authors.
In Situ Measurement of Discomfort Curves for Seated Subjects in a Car on the Four-Post Rig
Authors: Ibicek T. , Thite A. N.
Published: August 2014

The aim of this study is to measure and quantify perceived intensity of discomfort due to vibration in a vehicle in situ considering complete vehicle dynamic behaviour. The shaker table based discomfort curves or the road test results may not accurately and universally indicate the true level of human discomfort in a vehicle. A new experimental method, using a seated human in a car on the four-post rig simulator, is proposed to quantify discomfort. The intensity of perception to vibration decreased with decreasing input and increasing frequency; the rate of change is different from the published literature; the difference is large for angular modes of inputs. Vehicle dynamic response is used to inform and analyse the results. The repeatability of the method and the fact that they are in situ measurements may eventually help reduce reliance on the road tests. Furthermore, discomfort curves obtained, subsequently, can be used in predictive models.
Individual and Community Socioeconomic Status: Impact on Mental Health in Individuals with Arthritis
Authors: Mingo Chivon A. , Martin Kathryn R. , Shreffler Jack , Schoster Britta , Callahan Leigh F.
Published: August 2014

To examine the impact of individual and community socioeconomic status (SES) measures on mental health outcomes in individuals with arthritis, participants with self-reported arthritis completed a telephone survey assessing health status, health attitudes and beliefs, and sociodemographic variables. Regression analyses adjusting for race, gender, BMI, comorbidities, and age were performed to determine the impact of individual and community level SES on mental health outcomes (i.e., Medical Outcomes Study SF-12v2 mental health component, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Health-Related Quality of Life Healthy Days Measure, Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression [CES-D] scale). When entered singly, lower education and income, nonmanagerial occupation, non-homeownership, and medium and high community poverty were all significantly associated with poorer mental health outcomes. Income, however, was more strongly associated with the outcomes in comparison to the other SES variables. In a model including all SES measures simultaneously, income was significantly associated with each outcome variable. Lower levels of individual and community SES showed most consistent statistical significance in association with CES-D scores. Results suggest that both individual and community level SES are associated with mental health status in people with arthritis. It is imperative to consider how interventions focused on multilevel SES factors may influence existing disparities.
The Possibility of Traditional Chinese Medicine as Maintenance Therapy for Advanced Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Xu Weiru , Yang Guowang , Xu Yongmei , Zhang Qing , Fu Qi , Yu Jie , Yu Mingwei , Zhao Wenshuo , Yang Zhong , Hu Fengshan , Han Dong , Wang Xiaomin
Published: August 2014

Lung cancer has become the leading cause of cancer deaths, with nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for around 80% of lung cancer cases. Chemotherapy is the main conventional therapy for advanced NSCLC. However, the disease control achieved with classical chemotherapy in advanced NSCLC is usually restricted to only a few months. Thus, sustaining the therapeutic effect of first‐line chemotherapy is an important problem that requires study. Maintenance therapy is given for patients with advanced NSCLC if three is no tumor progression after four to six cycles of first‐line platinum‐based chemotherapy. However, selection of appropriate maintenance therapy depends on several factors, while traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as maintenance therapy is recommended for all kinds of patients. It has been demonstrated that TCM can prolong the survival time, improve the quality of life (QOL), and reduce the side effects for advanced NSCLC. Although the trials we searched about TCM serving as maintenance therapy is only 9 studies, the results indicate TCM can prolong the progression free survival (PFS) and improve the QOL. So it is possible for TCM to be as maintenance therapy for advanced NSCLC. More rigorous trials are required to further verify its efficacy.
Hemodynamic Surveillance of Ventricular Pacing Effectiveness with the Transvalvular Impedance Sensor
Authors: Calvi Valeria , Pizzimenti Giovanni , Lisi Marco , Doria Giuseppe , Vasquez Ludovico , Lisi Francesco , Felis Salvatore , Tempio Donatella , Virgilio Alfredo , Barbetta Alberto , Di Gregorio Franco
Published: August 2014

The Transvalvular Impedance (TVI) is derived between atrial and ventricular pacing electrodes. A sharp TVI increase in systole is an ejection marker, allowing the hemodynamic surveillance of ventricular stimulation effectiveness in pacemaker patients. At routine follow-up checks, the ventricular threshold test was managed by the stimulator with the supervision of a physician, who monitored the surface ECG. When the energy scan resulted in capture loss, the TVI system must detect the failure and increase the output voltage. A TVI signal suitable to this purpose was present in 85% of the tested patients. A total of 230 capture failures, induced in 115 patients in both supine and sitting upright positions, were all promptly recognized by real-time TVI analysis (100% sensitivity). The procedure was never interrupted by the physician, as the automatic energy regulation ensured full patient’s safety. The pulse energy was then set at 4 times the threshold to test the alarm specificity during daily activity (sitting, standing up, and walking). The median prevalence of false alarms was 0.336%. The study shows that TVI-based ejection assessment is a valuable approach to the verification of pacing reliability and the autoregulation of ventricular stimulation energy.
The Modulatory Effect of Ellagic Acid and Rosmarinic Acid on Ultraviolet-B-Induced Cytokine/Chemokine Gene Expression in Skin Keratinocyte (HaCaT) Cells
Authors: Lembo Serena , Balato Anna , Di Caprio Roberta , Cirillo Teresa , Giannini Valentina , Gasparri Franco , Monfrecola Giuseppe
Published: August 2014

Ultraviolet radiation (UV) induces an increase in multiple cutaneous inflammatory mediators. Ellagic acid (EA) and rosmarinic acid (RA) are natural anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory compounds found in many plants, fruits, and nuts. We assessed the ability of EA and RA to modulate IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, MCP-1, and TNF-αgene expression in HaCaT cells after UVB irradiation. Cells were treated with UVB (100 mJ/cm2) and simultaneously with EA (5 μM in 0.1% DMSO) or RA (2.7 μM in 0.5% DMSO). Moreover, these substances were added to the UVB-irradiated cells 1 h or 6 h before harvesting, depending on the established UVB-induced cytokine expression peak. Cytokine gene expression was examined using quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction. RA produced a significant reduction in UVB-induced expression of IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, and TNF-αwhen applied at the same time as irradiation. EA showed milder effects compared with RA, except for TNF-α. Both substances decreased IL-6 expression, also when applied 5 h after irradiation, and always produced a significant increase in UVB-induced IL-10 expression. Our findings suggest that EA and RA are able to prevent and/or limit the UVB-induced inflammatory cascade, through a reduction in proinflammatory mediators and the enhancement of IL-10, with its protective function.
Aflatoxin Resistance in Maize: What Have We Learned Lately?
Authors: Warburton Marilyn L. , Williams W. Paul
Published: August 2014

Aflatoxin contamination of maize grain is a huge economic and health problem, causing death and increased disease burden in much of the developing world and income loss in the developed world. Despite the gravity of the problem, deployable solutions are still being sought. In the past 15 years, much progress has been made in creating resistant maize inbred lines; mapping of genetic factors associated with resistance; and identifying possible resistance mechanisms. This review highlights this progress, most of which has occurred since the last time a review was published on this topic. Many of the needs highlighted in the last reviews have been addressed, and several solutions, taken together, can now greatly reduce the aflatoxin problem in maize grain. Continued research will soon lead to further solutions, which promise to further reduce and even eliminate the problem completely.
A Predictive Velocity Observer in Wire Bonder’s Control System
Authors: Zhou Lei , Li Jiangang , Zhang Wennong , Li Zexiang
Published: August 2014

Wire bonder is a typical high speed machine. The motion speed of XY‐stage is the key factor of bonding efficiency. However, phase lag elements in the servo system limit the bandwidth and slow down the system’s response. A predictive velocity observer is proposed to compensate for those phase lags. Then, the velocity loop controller can be designed as for a servo system which does not have those phase lags. Loop gains are enlarged and bandwidth is enlarged correspondingly. Then, the motion speed is improved and settling time is decreased. Experiment results verify that the predictive velocity observer provided a significant phase lead and the performance of wire bonder is improved.
Delayed Recognition of a Rare Mediastinal Lymphoma Presenting as Postpartum Circulatory Collapse
Authors: Kevric Jasmina , Nair Sanil , Ernest David
Published: August 2014

We report a case of a 29-year-old primigravida at 36 weeks of gestation following an emergency caesarean section, complicated by respiratory distress and multiorgan failure secondary to superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction, requiring intubation and prolonged ventilatory support. The presented case highlights the consequences of delayed recognition of SVC obstruction due to a reluctance to undertake appropriate radiological imaging during pregnancy.
Investigation of Traceability and Recall Plans of Food Processing Plants and Small and Medium Enterprises in Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Mat Aris Afiza Izzati , Soon Jan Mei
Published: August 2014

Food processing plants and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) need an excellent and reliable traceability system to ensure that consumers are well protected from consuming unsafe food. The traceability systems are being implemented by different food industries all around the world including Malaysia. This study aims to determine the implementation status of traceability system among food processing plants and SMEs. Another important goal is to identify the Critical Traceability Points (CTPs) in food processing and SMEs’ supply chains. A survey involving 17 processing plants and 53 SMEs from Kelantan, Malaysia, on the traceability and product recall system was conducted. The findings revealed that the food processing plants and SMEs are interested in implementing traceability system but they lack information and capital to carry out the system. Receiving (χ2=0.51;  df=1;  P<0.05) and dispatching (χ2=9.66;  df=1;  P<0.05) were identified as the CTPs in food processing plants and SMEs. Only 52.9% of the participants had implemented or were interested in implementation of traceability system. Several factors resulting in the lack of traceability implementation are due to time limitation, no perceivable benefits to the company’s economy and lack of clear policy guidance and support from government.
Effects of Li+ Codoping on the Optical Properties of SrAl2O4 Long Afterglow Ceramic Phosphors
Authors: Atabaev Timur Sh. , Thi Vu Hong Ha , Kim Mac , Yang Yong Suk , Kim Hyung-Kook , Hwang Yoon-Hwae
Published: August 2014

Rare-earths codoped long afterglow strontium aluminate phosphors with high brightness were synthesized via a facile combustion synthesis method using urea as a fuel. The resulted phosphor particles were analyzed by using X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscope, whereas their optical properties were monitored by photoluminescence spectroscopy. The prepared SrAl2O4:Eu2+, Dy3+, Li+ samples showed a broad green-yellowish emission, peaking at 512 nm when excited by 348 nm. Compared to traditional SrAl2O4:Eu2+, Dy3+ phosphor, the initial luminescence brightness of SrAl2O4:Eu2+, Dy3+, codoped with Li+ improved from 1.89 cd/m2 to 2.71 cd/m2 and the afterglow decay time was prolonged from 103 to 121 min. The possible mechanism of SrAl2O4:Eu2+, Dy3+, Li+ phosphorescence enhancement has been discussed.
In VitroAntioxidant, Antibacterial, and Cytotoxic Activity andIn VivoEffect ofSyngonium podophyllumandEichhornia crassipesLeaf Extracts on Isoniazid Induced Oxidative Stress and Hepatic Markers
Authors: Kumar Shashank , Kumar Ramesh , Dwivedi Astha , Pandey Abhay K.
Published: August 2014

The present study reports thein vitroantioxidant, antibacterial, and cytotoxic potential ofSyngonium podophyllum(SP) andEichhornia crassipes(EC) leaf aqueous extracts as well as theirin vivoeffect on oxidative stress and hepatic biomarkers in isoniazid induced rats. Phytochemical screening of extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, reducing sugars, alkaloids, and saponins. Phenolic content in SP and EC extracts was5.36±0.32and10.63±0.13 mg PGE/g, respectively, while flavonoid content was1.26±0.03and0.51±0.03 μg QE/mg, respectively. EC extract exhibited comparatively better antioxidant activity as indicated by reducing power (0.197–0.775), DPPH radical scavenging potential (11%–96%), and metal ion chelating ability (42%–93%). Both the extracts provided 13%–65% protection against lipid peroxidation in rat tissue (liver, kidney, and brain) homogenate. SP and EC extracts exhibited 51% and 43% cytotoxicity against lung cancer (NCI-H322) cell line, respectively. Both extracts demonstrated considerable antibacterial activity againstProteus vulgaris,Salmonella typhi, andBordetella bronchiseptica. Coadministration ofE. crassipesextract with isoniazid in rats accounted for 46% decrease in malondialdehyde content and 21% increase in FRAP value of plasma. It also mitigated the isoniazid induced alterations in serum enzymes (SGOT, SGPT, and ALP), total bilirubin, creatinine, and hemoglobin contents.S. podophyllumextract was found to be hepatotoxic.
A CBR-Based and MAHP-Based Customer Value Prediction Model for New Product Development
Authors: Zhao Yu-Jie , Luo Xin-xing , Deng Li
Published: August 2014

In the fierce market environment, the enterprise which wants to meet customer needs and boost its market profit and share must focus on the new product development. To overcome the limitations of previous research, Chan et al. proposed a dynamic decision support system to predict the customer lifetime value (CLV) for new product development. However, to better meet the customer needs, there are still some deficiencies in their model, so this study proposes a CBR-based and MAHP-based customer value prediction model for a new product (C&M-CVPM). CBR (case based reasoning) can reduce experts’ workload and evaluation time, while MAHP (multiplicative analytic hierarchy process) can use actual but average influencing factor’s effectiveness in stimulation, and at same time C&M-CVPM uses dynamic customers’ transition probability which is more close to reality. This study not only introduces the realization of CBR and MAHP, but also elaborates C&M-CVPM’s three main modules. The application of the proposed model is illustrated and confirmed to be sensible and convincing through a stimulation experiment.
pth Moment Exponential Stability of Nonlinear Hybrid Stochastic Heat Equations
Authors: Yang Xuetao , Zhu Quanxin , Yao Zhangsong
Published: August 2014

We are concerned with the exponential stability problem of a class of nonlinear hybrid stochastic heat equations (known as stochastic heat equations with Markovian switching) in an infinite state space. The fixed point theory is utilized to discuss the existence, uniqueness, and pth moment exponential stability of the mild solution. Moreover, we also acquire the Lyapunov exponents by combining the fixed point theory and the Gronwall inequality. At last, two examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of our obtained results.
Dental Erosion from an Excess of Vitamin C
Authors: Bahal Priya , Djemal Serpil
Published: August 2014

Acid erosion of enamel is the chemical dissolution of the superficial layers of teeth without the presence of bacteria. If the presence and exposure of a demineralising agent such as vitamin C is frequent and prolonged, it can lead to significant tooth wear. This case report discusses one such presentation and as a result of the occlusal relationship, this serves to effectively demonstrate the localised effects of vitamin C-induced acid erosion. The management of localised tooth wear with composite restorations utilising the Dahl principle to replace lost tooth tissue is also reported.Clinical Relevance. Patients should be made aware of the erosive nature of chewable vitamin C tablets and their potentially harmful effects on the dentition if consumed in excess.Objective Statement. The reader should understand the clinical implications of an excessive intake of vitamin C. This demonstrates the importance of the manufacturer’s instructions and the clinician’s role in advising patients with regard to the correct therapeutic doses.
Effects of Chinese Formula Jueyin Granules on Psoriasis in an Animal Model
Authors: Ma Tian , Jiang Wen-cheng , Li Xin , Chen Jie , Wu Tie-jun , Nian Hua , Xu Rong , Huang Qian-yuan , Xiao Qing-qing , Jian Qiang , Li Fu-lun , Li Bin
Published: August 2014

Although Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is known to be effective for psoriasis patients, the responsible mechanisms still remain poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of one formula, named Jueyin granules (JYG) in the mouse model of the vaginal epithelium and tail epidermis. Additionally, we also determined the anti‐inflammatory effects of JYG in an imiquimod‐ (IMQ‐) induced psoriasis‐like skin mouse model. Our results show that JYG can attenuate the IMQ‐induced psoriasis‐like inflammation, accompanied with increased epidermal hyperplasia. We also measured estrogenic stage mitosis of vaginal epithelial cells and the formation of granular cell layers in male mouse tails per 100 scales, as well as the tissue nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels using the ELISA method. The results suggest that JYG significantly inhibited mitosis in mouse vaginal epithelial cells, promoted the formation of the squamous epidermal granular layer in mice tails, and reduced the levels of NO and MDA in an imiquimod‐induced psoriasis‐like skin mouse model after 14 d (P < 0.05). These results demonstrate that JYG might be an effective clinical treatment for psoriasis and the effects may be related to inhibited keratinocytes proliferation, improved parakeratotic epidermal cells, and reduced expression of NO and MDA.
A Novel Multisensor Traffic State Assessment System Based on Incomplete Data
Authors: Zeng Yiliang , Lan Jinhui , Ran Bin , Jiang Yaoliang
Published: August 2014

A novel multisensor system with incomplete data is presented for traffic state assessment. The system comprises probe vehicle detection sensors, fixed detection sensors, and traffic state assessment algorithm. First of all, the validity checking of the traffic flow data is taken as preprocessing of this method. And then a new method based on the history data information is proposed to fuse and recover the incomplete data. According to the characteristics of space complementary of data based on the probe vehicle detector and fixed detector, a fusion model of space matching is presented to estimate the mean travel speed of the road. Finally, the traffic flow data include flow, speed and, occupancy rate, which are detected between Beijing Deshengmen bridge and Drum Tower bridge, are fused to assess the traffic state of the road by using the fusion decision model of rough sets and cloud. The accuracy of experiment result can reach more than 98%, and the result is in accordance with the actual road traffic state. This system is effective to assess traffic state, and it is suitable for the urban intelligent transportation system.
VibrioBase: A Model for Next-Generation Genome and Annotation Database Development
Authors: Choo Siew Woh , Heydari Hamed , Tan Tze King , Siow Cheuk Chuen , Beh Ching Yew , Wee Wei Yee , Mutha Naresh V. R. , Wong Guat Jah , Ang Mia Yang , Yazdi Amir Hessam
Published: August 2014

To facilitate the ongoing research ofVibriospp., a dedicated platform for theVibrioresearch community is needed to host the fast-growing amount of genomic data and facilitate the analysis of these data. We present VibrioBase, a useful resource platform, providing all basic features of a sequence database with the addition of unique analysis tools which could be valuable for theVibrioresearch community. VibrioBase currently houses a total of 252Vibriogenomes developed in a user-friendly manner and useful to enable the analysis of these genomic data, particularly in the field of comparative genomics. Besides general data browsing features, VibrioBase offers analysis tools such as BLAST interfaces and JBrowse genome browser. Other important features of this platform include our newly developed in-house tools, the pairwise genome comparison (PGC) tool, and pathogenomics profiling tool (PathoProT). The PGC tool is useful in the identification and comparative analysis of two genomes, whereas PathoProT is designed for comparative pathogenomics analysis ofVibriostrains. Both of these tools will enable researchers with little experience in bioinformatics to get meaningful information fromVibriogenomes with ease. We have tested the validity and suitability of these tools and features for use in the next-generation database development.
C-Terminal Domain Swapping of SSB Changes the Size of the ssDNA Binding Site
Authors: Huang Yen-Hua , Huang Cheng-Yang
Published: August 2014

Single-stranded DNA-binding protein (SSB) plays an important role in DNA metabolism, including DNA replication, repair, and recombination, and is therefore essential for cell survival. Bacterial SSB consists of an N-terminal ssDNA-binding/oligomerization domain and a flexible C-terminal protein-protein interaction domain. We characterized the ssDNA-binding properties ofKlebsiella pneumoniaeSSB (KpSSB),Salmonella entericaSerovar Typhimurium LT2 SSB (StSSB),Pseudomonas aeruginosaPAO1 SSB (PaSSB), and two chimeric KpSSB proteins, namely, KpSSBnStSSBc and KpSSBnPaSSBc. The C-terminal domain of StSSB or PaSSB was exchanged with that of KpSSB through protein chimeragenesis. By using the electrophoretic mobility shift assay, we characterized the stoichiometry of KpSSB, StSSB, PaSSB, KpSSBnStSSBc, and KpSSBnPaSSBc, complexed with a series of ssDNA homopolymers. The binding site sizes were determined to be26±2,21±2,29±2,21±2, and29±2nucleotides (nt), respectively. Comparison of the binding site sizes of KpSSB, KpSSBnStSSBc, and KpSSBnPaSSBc showed that the C-terminal domain swapping of SSB changes the size of the binding site. Our observations suggest that not only the conserved N-terminal domain but also the C-terminal domain of SSB is an important determinant for ssDNA binding.
MicroRNAs in Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Overview of the Accumulating Evidence and Importance as Novel Biomarkers
Authors: Fujiwara Tomohiro , Kunisada Toshiyuki , Takeda Ken , Uotani Koji , Yoshida Aki , Ochiya Takahiro , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: August 2014

Sarcomas are distinctly heterogeneous tumors and a variety of subtypes have been described. Although several diagnostic explorations in the past three decades, such as identification of chromosomal translocation, have greatly improved the diagnosis of soft tissue sarcomas, the unsolved issues, including the limited useful biomarkers, remain. Emerging reports on miRNAs in soft tissue sarcomas have provided clues to solving these problems. Evidence of circulating miRNAs in patients with soft tissue sarcomas and healthy individuals has been accumulated and is accelerating their potential to develop into clinical applications. Moreover, miRNAs that function as novel prognostic factors have been identified, thereby facilitating their use in miRNA-targeted therapy. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on miRNA deregulation in soft tissue sarcomas, and discuss their potential as novel biomarkers and therapeutics.
Pleuroperitoneal Leak: An Unusual Cause of Acute Shortness of Breath in a Peritoneal Dialysis Patient
Authors: Ramaema D. P. , Mpikashe P.
Published: August 2014

Introduction. Pleuroperitoneal leak is an uncommon complication of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), with an estimated incidence of 1.6%. It should be suspected in these patients when they present with recurrent unilateral pleural effusions and/or acute shortness of breath following dialysate infusion.Case Presentation. We present the case of a 25-year-old female patient who had acute hydrothorax as a result of pleuroperitoneal leak complicating continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), which was confirmed on peritoneal scintigraphy.Conclusion. Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients presenting with acute shortness of breath and/or recurrent unilateral pleural effusion should be investigated with peritoneal scintigraphy to exclude pleuroperitoneal leak.
The Effect of Alcohol Intoxication on Mortality of Blunt Head Injury
Authors: Lin Hsing-Lin , Lin Tsung-Ying , Soo Kwan-Ming , Chen Chao-Wen , Kuo Liang-Chi , Lin Yen-Ko , Lee Wei-Che , Lin Chih-Lung
Published: August 2014

Alcohol is found to have neuroprotection in recent studies in head injuries. We investigated the association of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) with mortality of patients with blunt head injury after traffic accident. All patients sustaining blunt head injury caused by traffic accident brought to our emergency department who had obtained a brain computed tomography scans and BAC were analyzed. Patients with unknown mechanisms, transfers from outside hospitals, and incomplete data were excluded. Logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of mortality. During the study period, 3,628 patients with brain computed tomography (CT) were included. Of these, BAC was measured in 556 patients. Patients with the lowest BAC (less than 8 mg/dl) had lower mortality; intoxicated patients with BAC between 8 and less than 100 mg/dl were associated with significantly higher mortality than those patients in other intoxicated groups. Adjusted logistic regression demonstrated higher BAC group and Glasgow coma scale (GCS) scores, and lower ISS and age were identified as independent predictors of reduced mortality. In our study, we found that patients who had moderate alcohol intoxication had higher risk of mortality. However, higher GCS scores, lower ISS, and younger age were identified as independent predictors of reduced mortality in the study patients.
The Properties of Binding Sites of miR-619-5p, miR-5095, miR-5096, and miR-5585-3p in the mRNAs of Human Genes
Authors: Ivashchenko Anatoly , Berillo Olga , Pyrkova Anna , Niyazova Raigul , Atambayeva Shara
Published: August 2014

The binding of 2,578 human miRNAs with the mRNAs of 12,175 human genes was studied. It was established that miR-619-5p, miR-5095, miR-5096, and miR-5585-3p bind with high affinity to the mRNAs of the 1215, 832, 725, and 655 genes, respectively. These unique miRNAs have binding sites in the coding sequences and untranslated regions of mRNAs. The mRNAs of many genes have multiple miR-619-5p, miR-5095, miR-5096, and miR-5585-3p binding sites. Groups of mRNAs in which the ordering of the miR-619-5p, miR-5095, miR-5096, and miR-5585-3p binding sites differ were established. The possible functional and evolutional properties of unique miRNAs are discussed.
Noncontact Microembossing Technology for Fabricating Thermoplastic Optical Polymer Microlens Array Sheets
Authors: Chang Xuefeng , Xie Dan , Ge Xiaohong , Li Hui
Published: August 2014

Thermoplastic optical polymers have replaced traditional optical glass for many applications, due to their superior optical performance, mechanical characteristics, low cost, and efficient production process. This paper investigates noncontact microembossing technology used for producing microlens arrays made out of PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), PS (polyStyrene), and PC (polycarbonate) from a quartz mold, with microhole arrays. An array of planoconvex microlenses are formed because of surface tension caused by applying pressure to the edge of a hole at a certain glass transition temperature. We studied the principle of noncontact microembossing techniques using finite element analysis, in addition to the thermal and mechanical properties of the three polymers. Then, the independently developed hot-embossing equipment was used to fabricate microlens arrays on PMMA, PS, and PC sheets. This is a promising technique for fabricating diverse thermoplastic optical polymer microlens array sheets, with a simple technological process and low production costs.
A Primary Hepatic Lymphoma Treated with Liver Resection and Chemotherapy
Authors: Bouliaris Konstantinos , Christodoulidis Grigorios , Koukoulis Georgios , Mamaloudis Ioannis , Ioannou Maria , Bouronikou Eleni , Palassopoulou Maria , Tepetes Konstantinos
Published: August 2014

Primary hepatic lymphoma (PHL) is a rare malignancy, which is frequently misdiagnosed. Although chemotherapy is the treatment of choice there are reports that a combination of surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy can offer better results. Herein we present an interesting case of a large primary non-Hodgkin lymphoma originating from liver was treated with a liver which resection and chemotherapy.