bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glaucoma in patients with shunt-treated normal pressure hydrocephalus
Authors: Gallina Pasquale , Savastano Alfonso , Becattini Eleonora , Orlandini Simone , Scollato Antonio , Rizzo Stanislao , Carreras Giulia , Di Lorenzo Nicola , Porfirio Berardino
Published: November 2017

OBJECTIVE

Changes in the pressure gradient between intraocular and intracranial compartments at the lamina cribrosa level are a possible explanation of normal tension glaucoma (NTG). Shunt-treated normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a model for testing whether the increase (time from disease onset to CSF shunt placement, i.e., “protection period”) and decrease (time from shunt placement to observation, i.e., “exposure period”) in intracranial pressure (ICP) are glaucoma protective or risk factors, respectively. The authors estimated the prevalence of NTG in patients with shunt-treated NPH and calculated the extent of optic nerve exposure to changes in the trans–lamina cribrosa gradient.

METHODS

Data obtained in patients with NPH who had undergone ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement were analyzed. Patients with more than 6 months’ follow-up, no pathologies associated with ICP changes or CSF dynamics disturbances, and no surgical or valve-related complications were scheduled for ophthalmic evaluation.

RESULTS

Nine of 22 patients had NTG, which is about a 40-fold increase in rate compared with the rate in the general elderly population without hydrocephalus (p < 0.001). The median protection period was 12.0 months in patients with NTG and 18.0 months in those without NTG (p = 0.033). The median ICP decrease multiplied by duration of exposure in months was 76.0 mm Hg × months in the NTG group and 24.1 mm Hg × months in the no-NTG group (p = 0.048). The patients’ median adjusted age (adjusted for “protection” and “exposure” times) was 85.1 years in the NTG group and 78.8 years in the no-NTG group (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A crucial risk factor for development of NTG in patients with shunt-treated NPH is the duration of optic nerve exposure to the lowering of ICP. Patients with NPH who are candidates for CSF shunting should be informed of the risk of incurring glaucoma. Longitudinal studies could provide estimates of tolerated times for a given ICP decrease.
Enhancement of invadopodia activity in glioma cells by sublethal doses of irradiation and temozolomide
Authors: Mao Leon , Whitehead Clarissa A. , Paradiso Lucia , Kaye Andrew H. , Morokoff Andrew P. , Luwor Rodney B. , Stylli Stanley S.
Published: November 2017

OBJECTIVE

Glioblastoma is the most common primary central nervous system tumor in adults. These tumors are highly invasive and infiltrative and result in tumor recurrence as well as an extremely poor patient prognosis. The current standard of care involves surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. However, previous studies have suggested that glioblastoma cells that survive treatment are potentially more invasive. The goal of this study was to investigate whether this increased phenotype in surviving cells is facilitated by actin-rich, membrane-based structures known as invadopodia.

METHODS

A number of commercially available cell lines and glioblastoma cell lines obtained from patients were initially screened for the protein expression levels of invadopodia regulators. Gelatin-based zymography was also used to establish their secretory protease profile. The effects of radiation and temozolomide treatment on the glioblastoma cells were then investigated with cell viability, Western blotting, gelatin-based zymography, and invadopodia matrix degradation assays.

RESULTS

The authors’ results show that the glioma cells used in this study express a number of invadopodia regulators, secrete MMP-2, and form functional matrix-degrading invadopodia. Cells that were treated with radiotherapy and temozolomide were observed to show an increase primarily in the activation of MMP-2. Importantly, this also resulted in a significant enhancement in the invadopodia-facilitated matrix-degrading ability of the cells, along with an increase in the percentage of cells with invadopodia after radiation and temozolomide treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The data from this study suggest that the increased invasive phenotype that has been previously observed in glioma cells posttreatment is mediated by invadopodia. The authors propose that if the formation or activity of these structures can be disrupted, they could potentially serve as a viable target for developing novel adjuvant therapeutic strategies that can be used in conjunction with the current treatment protocols in combatting the invasive phenotype of this deadly disease.
Surgical strategies for the treatment of os odontoideum with atlantoaxial dislocation
Authors: Wu Xinghuo , Wood Kirkham B. , Gao Yong , Li Shuai , Wang Jing , Ge Ting , Zhao Boming , Shao Zengwu , Yang Shuhua , Yang Cao
Published: November 2017

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the clinical results of using posterior fixation and fusion with or without anterior decompression to treat os odontoideum with atlantoaxial dislocation.

METHODS

Twenty-five consecutive patients with os odontoideum were included in this study. Sixteen patients with reducible atlantoaxial dislocation were treated by single-level posterior fusion and stabilization; the other 9 were treated with posterior fusion and stabilization combined with transoral decompression. Pre- and postoperative CT scans and MR images were obtained.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients were followed for 24–54 months (average 36.5 months). Postoperative CT scans indicated that all pedicle screws were placed satisfactorily except in 2 cases, in which the screws slightly penetrated the transverse foramen. Postoperative MR images demonstrated that sufficient decompression of the spinal cord was obtained in all patients. Complications included 1 case each of pedicle screw breakage, pharynx ulcer, and persistent pharynx discomfort. Statistical analysis of all cases revealed that mean Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores improved from a preoperative score of 10.2 (range 7–13) to a postoperative score of 15.6 (range 11–18).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who have os odontoideum with a reducible atlantoaxial dislocation can be effectively treated with single-level posterior fusion and stabilization. Combined transoral decompression and posterior fusion and stabilization is recommended for those with irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation.
Combined interventional and surgical treatment of tandem middle cerebral artery embolus and internal carotid artery occlusion: case report
Authors: Frenkel Mark B. , Renfrow Jaclyn J. , Singh Jasmeet , Garg Nitin , Wolfe Stacey Q.
Published: November 2017

Tandem internal carotid artery (ICA) origin occlusion and middle cerebral artery (MCA) thromboembolism is a life-threatening condition with poor neurological outcome. The authors report on a patient presenting with acute ischemic stroke from a tandem ICA and MCA occlusion with penumbra. Emergency MCA mechanical thrombectomy was performed through percutaneous cervical ICA access due to the inability to cross the cervical carotid occlusion. Emergency carotid endarterectomy to reperfuse the poorly collateralized hemisphere and repair the ICA access site was performed 2 hours after completion of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) infusion. This case illustrates the shortest reported interval between tPA infusion and open surgical intervention for carotid revascularization, as well as the role of direct carotid artery access for mechanical thrombectomy. The authors also describe the use of a temporizing femoral artery–to–ICA shunt to maintain cerebral perfusion in the setting of ICA occlusion.
Nickel-Catalysed Synthesis of 17-Arylandrosta-5,16-Dienes
Authors: Wang Lizhong , Wang Ting , Dai Chenlu , Li Yang , Wang Cunde
Published: November 2017

An efficient Ni-catalysed coupling reaction between arylboronic acids and 17-trifluoromethanesulfonyl- 3β-acetoxyandrosta-5,16-diene which was obtained by the sulfonylation of 3β-acetoxylandrost-5-ene-17-one was developed to afford 17-aryl- 3β-acetoxy-androsta-5,16-dienes in moderate to good yields (52–85%). The structure of the 3,4-dimethoxyaryl product was confirmed by X-ray crystallography.
Diastereoselective Synthesis of Functionalised Trans-Tetrahydrobenzofuran-4-Ones in an Aqueous Medium by using DABCO as an Efficient Catalyst
Authors: Salari Mohammad Reza , Mosslemin Mohammad H. , Hassanabadi Alireza
Published: November 2017

A one-pot, efficient synthesis of 11 novel 2,3-diacylated trans-tetrahydrobenzofuran-4-one derivatives has been achieved via a three-component condensation of a N-(4-halophenacyl)-pyridinium bromide, a cyclic 1,3-diketone such as 5,5-dimethyl-1,3-cyclohexanedione (dimedone) or cyclohexane-1,3-dione and an arylglyoxal in the presence of catalytic amounts of 1,4-diaza-bicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) in water under reflux conditions. The attractive features of the method are excellent yields and high purity, short reaction times, easy work-up, and use of an inexpensive and non-toxic catalyst.
Glutamic Acid as an Efficient and Green Catalyst for the One-Pot Synthesis of 1,2,4,5-Tetrasubstituted Imidazoles under Thermal, Solvent-Free Conditions
Authors: Feizabad Fahimeh Khazaee , Khandan-Barani Khatereh , Hassanabadi Alireza
Published: November 2017

A high-yielding synthesis of 1,2,4,5-tetrasubstituted imidazoles is described, involving the reaction of 1,2-dicarbonyl compounds, aryl aldehydes, amines and ammonium acetate in the presence of a catalytic amount of glutamic acid under thermal, solvent-free conditions. The salient features of this protocol are aerobic conditions, a non-hazardous green catalyst, short reaction times and mild reaction conditions.
Sisyphus in Neverland
Authors: Ferrer Isidro
Published: November 2017

The study of life and living organisms and the way in which these interact and organize to form social communities have been central to my career. I have been fascinated by biology, neurology, and neuropathology, but also by history, sociology, and art. Certain current historical, political, and social events, some occurring proximally but others affecting people in apparently distant places, have had an impact on me. Epicurus, Seneca, and Camus shared their philosophical positions which I learned from. Many scientists from various disciplines have been exciting sources of knowledge as well. I have created a world of hypothesis and experiments but I have also got carried away by serendipity following unexpected observations. It has not been an easy path; errors and wanderings are not uncommon, and opponents close to home much more abundant than one might imagine. Ambition, imagination, resilience, and endurance have been useful in moving ahead in response to setbacks. In the end, I have enjoyed my dedication to science and I am grateful to have glimpsed beauty in it. These are brief memories of a Spanish neuropathologist born and raised in Barcelona, EU.
Corrigendum: Nutritional Evaluation and Optimisation in Neonates (NEON) trial of amino acid regimen and intravenous lipid composition in preterm parenteral nutrition: a randomised double-blind controlled trial
Authors: Uthaya Sabita , Liu Xinxue , Babalis Daphne , Dore Caroline , Warwick Jane , Bell Jimmy , Thomas Louise , Ashby Deborah , Durighel Giuliana , Ederies Ash , Yanez-Lopez Monica , Modi Neena
Published: November 2017

During the uploading of data for submission to the EudraCT results database, a discrepancy was identified. It was noted that the number of deaths per group was not consistent with the number in the final report and trial publication. This discrepancy was found to relate to two randomisation numbers. During the trial, the randomisation database had been held separately from the trial database, with manual transcription of randomisation numbers from the randomisation database to the trial database. Two randomisation numbers had been entered incorrectly into the trial database and, although this was documented at the time, the correction had not been made in the analysis data set. The two infants in question received the correct treatment in accordance with their allocation, but were analysed according to the wrong treatment group. Following the identification of this error, all analyses were repeated. It was confirmed that this error had a negligible impact on the study results. Furthermore, the two infants in question had not been included in the primary and secondary outcome analyses, as one had died and the other had withdrawn prior to the primary end-point assessment, so the key study outcomes remain unchanged. The only changes to the results are in the number of serious adverse events and minor changes to the data in demographics tables mostly affecting decimal points and the CONSORT diagram. Our interpretation of the study results remains unchanged.
Regulating Corporate Directors’ Pay and Performance: A Comparative Review
Authors: Ezeani Elimma C. , Williams Elizabeth
Published: November 2017

This article looks at the practice and reform with regard to directors’ pay and performance in Australia, the United Kingdom (UK) and Nigeria. It examines the use and impact of incentive plans, long-term, short-term, and performance-related, in compensating directors. Although all three jurisdictions can benefit from further reforms, this work finds that Australia's strong oversight of directors’ pay and performance provide a more robust corporate governance strategy than the other two jurisdictions. It also argues that contrary to the UK's non-interventionist approach, without a robust regime for addressing directors’ pay, the chances of corporate failure are increasingly greater. Emerging economies like Nigeria need even stronger oversight to attract much needed investment and maintain confidence in the Nigerian corporate sector.
The Francophone/Anglophone Split over Article 47 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Cameroon: An Abiding Malaise with an Explosive Charge
Authors: Nfobin E. H. Ngwa
Published: November 2017

Voting in 1961for reunification with the Republic of Cameroon instead of remaining Nigerian, the Southern Cameroons made a point. Neither the Treaty of Versailles partitioning the defunct German protectorate between Britain and France nor the superimposition of new values by the successor powers affected nationhood developed under the Germans. They were instead enriching features of that national identity of Kamerun.

However, time has revealed how difficult it is to become the beacon of enlightened tolerance. Points of friction emerged, many articulated in the 1993 Buea Declaration that led to the creation of the Southern Cameroons National Council and the 2003 petition mainly for secession to the African Commission.

One remains an oozing sore, with all possibilities of opening up into a running sore anytime – the 1972 referendum for the switch to unitarism that gave national destiny a decisively Francophone tilt. Anglophones contend Article 47 of the Federal Constitution guaranteed permanence of status beyond even the power of a referendum and that abolishing federalism entitled them to assert independence from the union.

Against these, however, are surefire pro-Francophone arguments: the ‘Francophone spirit’ of the text and the agreed superiority of the French language, which stacked the odds against Anglophones even from the start.
African Natural Resources Agreements: Stabilisation Tricks and Traps for the Unwary
Authors: Temple Richard M.
Published: November 2017

In Africa, legal certainty has been a much craved ideal by investors in the natural resources sector. A key feature of legal certainty in long-term natural resources contracts is to make sure that if new laws are passed or existing laws amended which adversely affect the sponsor, compensation is paid for such changes.

When natural resources prices are rising companies are often prepared to take a robust commercial view on the stabilisation risks. It is often seen as falling in the catastrophic risk category but unlikely to occur. However, with the current challenges in oil and gas and commodities in world markets and the global competition for capital, the strength and enforceability of contractual stabilisation covenants in long-term natural resources contracts in Africa in an increasingly risk-adverse world are ever more important.

While there is always much debate over the fiscal package in natural resources deals, the stabilisation provisions rarely receive the attention they merit. How to value contractual stabilisation legal protections against more easily quantified fiscal provisions remains an anathema. What is clear is that companies will be well served to devote attention to stabilisation clauses as the temptation for African governments to tweak laws in the face of dwindling revenues can become overwhelming.

This article looks at stabilisation issues in African natural resources contracts (in the context of a change of law by a host government) and how best to enhance the chances of a successful and legally binding stabilisation clause drawing on examples from throughout the African continent.
NIRExpNet: Three-Stream 3D Convolutional Neural Network for Near Infrared Facial Expression Recognition
Authors: Wu Zhan , Chen Tong , Chen Ying , Zhang Zhihao , Liu Guangyuan
Published: November 2017

Facial expression recognition (FER) under active near-infrared (NIR) illumination has the advantages of illumination invariance. In this paper, we propose a three-stream 3D convolutional neural network, named as NIRExpNet for NIR FER. The 3D structure of NIRExpNet makes it possible to extract automatically, not just spatial features, but also, temporal features. The design of multiple streams of the NIRExpNet enables it to fuse local and global facial expression features. To avoid over-fitting, the NIRExpNet has a moderate size to suit the Oulu-CASIA NIR facial expression database that is a medium-size database. Experimental results show that the proposed NIRExpNet outperforms some previous state-of-art methods, such as Histogram of Oriented Gradient to 3D (HOG 3D), Local binary patterns from three orthogonal planes (LBP-TOP), deep temporal appearance-geometry network (DTAGN), and adapt 3D Convolutional Neural Networks (3D CNN DAP).
Effects of Surfactants on the Preparation of Nanocellulose-PLA Composites
Authors: Immonen Kirsi , Lahtinen Panu , Pere Jaakko
Published: November 2017

Thermoplastic composite materials containing wood fibers are gaining increasing interest in the manufacturing industry. One approach is to use nano- or micro-size cellulosic fibrils as additives and to improve the mechanical properties obtainable with only small fibril loadings by exploiting the high aspect ratio and surface area of nanocellulose. In this study, we used four different wood cellulose-based materials in a thermoplastic polylactide (PLA) matrix: cellulose nanofibrils produced from softwood kraft pulp (CNF) and dissolving pulp (CNFSD), enzymatically prepared high-consistency nanocellulose (HefCel) and microcellulose (MC) together with long alkyl chain dispersion-improving agents. We observed increased impact strength with HefCel and MC addition of 5% and increased tensile strength with CNF addition of 3%. The addition of a reactive dispersion agent, epoxy-modified linseed oil, was found to be favorable in combination with HefCel and MC.
Effects of Grafting Azacrown Ether on Thermal and Swelling Properties of Chitosan Films
Authors: Toeri Julius , Laborie Marie-Pierre
Published: November 2017

The thermal and swelling properties of a series of azacrown ether-crosslinked chitosans prepared with varying molar amounts of N,N-diallyl-7,13-diaza-1,7,10,16-tetraoxa-dibenzo-18-crown-6 (molar equivalents ranging from 0, 0.125, 0.167, 0.25 and 0.5) films were studied with Thermographimetric analysis (TGA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Dynamic Mechanical analysis (DMA) techniques and swelling kinetics. Introducing the azacrown (DAC) as crosslinker into the chitosan matrices (Ch) altered the thermal and swelling properties of the chitosan/crown ether films (Ch-DAC) systematically with respect to molar ratios. At lower DAC content, a depression of Tg revealed a dominating internal plasticization effect of DAC on chitosan, while higher DAC molar ratios systematically increased the Tg of the network. The films high swelling capacity (as high as 1200%) was reached within three hours in aqueous acidic media and decreased systematically with increasing DAC content. The swelling behavior was highly dependent on pH and followed second order kinetics. Understanding the thermal and swelling properties of this series of azacrown ether-crosslinked chitosans sets the stage to further shed light on their impact for heavy metal adsorption in water remediation applications.
Pyogenic Brain Abscess Caused by Peptostreptococcus in a Patient with HIV-1 Infection
Authors: Gonzales Zamora Jose , Espinoza Luis
Published: November 2017

In the setting of HIV, cerebral lesions are usually secondary to lymphoma and opportunistic infections; however, in patients with CD4 counts above 200 cells/uL, other pathologies such as pyogenic brain abscess could gain importance. The microbiology of pyogenic brain abscess has Staphylococcus and Streptococcus as the leading etiologic pathogens in immunocompetent individuals. Peptostreptococcus is also recognized as a common cause of brain abscess in this patient population. In HIV-infected individuals, there have been sporadic reports of Peptostreptococcus infections but none of brain abscess. We describe the case of a 43-years-old HIV-infected patient with a CD4 count of 350 cells/uL that developed a Peptostreptococcus brain abscess presumably from hematogenous spread of an odontogenic source. Treatment with stereotactic needle aspiration in two opportunities and four weeks of intravenous antibiotics led to a complete resolution of this infection. This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for an effective treatment of pyogenic brain abscess in HIV-1 patients.
Transmittance and Reflectance Studies of Thermotropic Material for a Novel Building Integrated Concentrating Photovoltaic (BICPV) ‘Smart Window’ System
Authors: Connelly Karen , Wu Yupeng , Ma Xiaoyu , Lei Yu
Published: November 2017

A novel Building Integrated Concentrating Photovoltaic (BICPV) Smart Window has been designed and developed as a next generation intelligent window system. In response to climatic conditions, the smart window varies solar light transmission into the building for provision of light and heat with the reflection of light to the photovoltaic (PV) for electricity generation. This unique function is realised using an integrated thermotropic layer in conjunction with embedded PVs. As commercial PVs are readily available, the success of this novel BICPV design depends solely on the performance of the thermotropic material. This study aimed to develop a suitable reflective thermotropic layer for the proposed smart Concentrating Photovoltaic (CPV) system. A Hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) polymer was tested for its applicability as a potential reflective thermotropic material for this purpose. HPC concentration was systematically varied from 1 wt. % to 6 wt. % in aqueous solution so as to provide insight into the relationship between transmittance/reflectance properties, the concentration of the thermotropic material and their dependence upon the environmental temperature. The degree of hysteresis of light transmittance upon subjecting HPC to heating and cooling cycles was also investigated. Specifically, for the HPC liquid samples the measured threshold temperature/transition temperature (Ts) was observed to be approximately 40 °C for 6 wt. % HPC, increasing to approximately 44 °C for 1 wt. % HPC. No hysteresis was observed upon heating and cooling HPC samples. Reflectance below the Ts was recorded at ~10%, increasing up to ~70% above the Ts for 6 wt. % HPC. Finally, a HPC-based hydrogel membrane sample was developed and exhibited good thermotropic activity therefore demonstrating its suitability for use within the BICPV smart window. This study corroborates that HPC is a suitable thermotropic material in the application of next generation BICPV smart window systems.
Transactive-Market-Based Operation of Distributed Electrical Energy Storage with Grid Constraints
Authors: Faqiry M. , Edmonds Lawryn , Zhang Haifeng , Khodaei Amin , Wu Hongyu
Published: November 2017

In a transactive energy market, distributed energy resources (DERs) such as dispatchable distributed generators (DGs), electrical energy storages (EESs), distribution-scale load aggregators (LAs), and renewable energy sources (RESs) have to earn their share of supply or demand through a bidding process. In such a market, the distribution system operator (DSO) may optimally schedule these resources, first in a forward market, i.e., day-ahead, and in a real-time market later on, while maintaining a reliable and economic distribution grid. In this paper, an efficient day-ahead scheduling of these resources, in the presence of interaction with wholesale market at the locational marginal price (LMP), is studied. Due to inclusion of EES units with integer constraints, a detailed mixed integer linear programming (MILP) formulation that incorporates simplified DistFlow equations to account for grid constraints is proposed. Convex quadratic line and transformer apparent power flow constraints have been linearized using an outer approximation. The proposed model schedules DERs based on distribution locational marginal price (DLMP), which is obtained as the Lagrange multiplier of the real power balance constraint at each distribution bus while maintaining physical grid constraints such as line limits, transformer limits, and bus voltage magnitudes. Case studies are performed on a modified IEEE 13-bus system with high DER penetration. Simulation results show the validity and efficiency of the proposed model.
Tidal Turbines’ Layout in a Stream with Asymmetry and Misalignment
Authors: Guillou Nicolas , Chapalain Georges
Published: November 2017

A refined assessment of tidal currents variability is a prerequisite for successful turbine deployment in the marine environment. However, the numerical evaluation of the tidal kinetic energy resource relies, most of the time, on integrated parameters, such as the averaged or maximum stream powers. Predictions from a high resolution three-dimensional model are exploited here to characterize the asymmetry and misalignment between the flood and ebb tidal currents in the “Raz de Sein”, a strait off western Brittany (France) with strong potential for array development. A series of parameters is considered to assess resource variability and refine the cartography of local potential tidal stream energy sites. The strait is characterized by strong tidal flow divergence with currents’ asymmetry liable to vary output power by 60% over a tidal cycle. Pronounced misalignments over 20 ∘ are furthermore identified in a great part of energetic locations, and this may account for a deficit of the monthly averaged extractable energy by more than 12%. As sea space is limited for turbines, it is finally suggested to aggregate flood and ebb-dominant stream powers on both parts of the strait to output energy with reduced asymmetry.
Polarized Emission from Gamma-Ray Burst Jets
Authors: Kobayashi Shiho
Published: November 2017

I review how polarization signals have been discussed in the research field of Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs). I mainly discuss two subjects in which polarimetry enables us to study the nature of relativistic jets. (1) Jet breaks: Gamma-ray bursts are produced in ultra-relativistic jets. Due to the relativistic beaming effect, the emission can be modeled in a spherical model at early times. However, as the jet gradually slows down, we begin to see the edge of the jet together with polarized signals at some point. (2) Optical flash: later time afterglow is known to be insensitive to the properties of the original ejecta from the GRB central engine. However, a short-lived, reverse shock emission would enable us to study the nature of of GRB jets. I also briefly discuss the recent detection of optical circular polarization in GRB afterglow.
Fatty Acid Composition of Dried Fruits of Sclerocarya birrea, Diospyros blancoi and Landolphia kirkii
Authors: Matemu Athanasia , Adeyemi Durotoye , Nyoni Hlengilizwe , Mdee Ladislaus , Tshabalala Papiso , Mamba Bhekie , Msagati Titus
Published: November 2017

Wild fruits are commonly consumed in the rural communities of South Africa. The information on their nutritionally important fatty acids is, however, limited. Three wild fruit species, Diospyros blancoi, Landolphia kirkii and Sclerocarya birrea from Limpopo Province were selected for evaluation of fatty acid content. Fatty acids composition of dried fruits of Diospyros blancoi (Db), Landolphia kirkii (Lk) and ripe and/or overripe Sclerocarya birrea (Sb) were evaluated by a gas chromatography-time of flight-mass spectrometer (GC-TOF-MS). Hexadecanoic acid (C16:0) was found in highest abundance in L. kirkii (57.73–73.55%), followed by S. birrea (55.92–71.31%) and D. blancoi (46.31–62.05%), respectively. Octadecanoic acid (C18:0) was of second highest abundance, with 24.71–100% in D. blancoi, L. kirkii (31.03–41.60%) and S. birrea (9.11–17.0%). The 9-octadecenoic acid (C18:1n-9) was the major unsaturated fatty acid in both S. birrea (5.33–18.82%), D. blancoi (8.22–8.92%), and L. kirkii (3.84–8.63%). The 9,-12-octadecadienoic acid (C18:2n-6) was the major unsaturated fatty acid in D. blancoi (22.34%). The 9,-12,-15-octadecatrienoic acid (C18:3n-3) was found in L. kirkii (3.51%) and S. birrea (2.79%). From the results, saturated fatty acids were the most dominant, whereas mono- and poly-unsaturated fatty acids were the minor constituents. Therefore, presence of nutritionally important essential fatty acids from S. birrea, D. blancoi and L. kirkii has been shown.
Neurotrophic and Neuroregenerative Effects of GH/IGF1
Authors: Bianchi Vittorio , Locatelli Vittorio , Rizzi Laura
Published: November 2017

Introduction. Human neurodegenerative diseases increase progressively with age and present a high social and economic burden. Growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) are both growth factors exerting trophic effects on neuronal regeneration in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS). GH and IGF-1 stimulate protein synthesis in neurons, glia, oligodendrocytes, and Schwann cells, and favor neuronal survival, inhibiting apoptosis. This study aims to evaluate the effect of GH and IGF-1 on neurons, and their possible therapeutic clinical applications on neuron regeneration in human subjects. Methods. In the literature, we searched the clinical trials and followed up studies in humans, which have evaluated the effect of GH/IGF-1 on CNS and PNS. The following keywords have been used: “GH/IGF-1” associated with “neuroregeneration”, “amyotrophic lateral sclerosis”, “Alzheimer disease”, “Parkinson’s disease”, “brain”, and “neuron”. Results. Of the retrieved articles, we found nine articles about the effect of GH in healthy patients who suffered from traumatic brain injury (TBI), and six studies (four using IGF-1 and two GH therapy) in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The administration of GH in patients after TBI showed a significantly positive recovery of brain and mental function. Treatment with GH and IGF-1 therapy in ALS produced contradictory results. Conclusions. Although strong findings have shown the positive effects of GH/IGF-1 administration on neuroregeneration in animal models, a very limited number of clinical studies have been conducted in humans. GH/IGF-1 therapy had different effects in patients with TBI, evidencing a high recovery of neurons and clinical outcome, while in ALS patients, the results are contradictory. More complex clinical protocols are necessary to evaluate the effect of GH/IGF-1 efficacy in neurodegenerative diseases. It seems evident that GH and IGF-1 therapy favors the optimal recovery of neurons when a consistent residual activity is still present. Furthermore, the effect of GH/IGF-1 could be mediated by, or be overlapped with that of other hormones, such as estradiol and testosterone.
Exploration for the Salinity Tolerance-Related Genes from Xero-Halophyte Atriplex canescens Exploiting Yeast Functional Screening System
Authors: Yu Gang , Li Jingtao , Sun Xinhua , Liu Yanzhi , Wang Xueliang , Zhang Hao , Pan Hongyu
Published: November 2017

Plant productivity is limited by salinity stress, both in natural and agricultural systems. Identification of salt stress-related genes from halophyte can provide insights into mechanisms of salt stress tolerance in plants. Atriplex canescens is a xero-halophyte that exhibits optimum growth in the presence of 400 mM NaCl. A cDNA library derived from highly salt-treated A. canescens plants was constructed based on a yeast expression system. A total of 53 transgenic yeast clones expressing enhanced salt tolerance were selected from 105 transformants. Their plasmids were sequenced and the gene characteristics were annotated using a BLASTX search. Retransformation of yeast cells with the selected plasmids conferred salt tolerance to the resulting transformants. The expression patterns of 28 of these stress-related genes were further investigated in A. canescens leaves by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. In this study, we provided a rapid and robust assay system for large-scale screening of genes for varied abiotic stress tolerance with high efficiency in A. canescens.
Intermittent and Continuous Rotary Ultrasonic Machining of K9 Glass: An Experimental Investigation
Authors: Fernando Palamandadige , Zhang Meng , Pei Zhijian , Cong Weilong
Published: November 2017

Rotary ultrasonic machining (RUM) is a nontraditional and cost-effective machining method for hard and brittle materials, such as ceramics, optical glass, composite materials, and so on. RUM is a hybrid process that combines the material removal mechanisms of diamond abrasive grinding and ultrasonic machining. In RUM, a rotating cutting tool with metal-bonded diamond abrasive particles is ultrasonically vibrated in the axial direction while the tool spindle is fed toward the workpiece at a constant feedrate to remove material. It has been reported that continuous rotary ultrasonic machining has been successfully used to drill holes in K9 glass. Intermittent rotary ultrasonic machining is a newly introduced ultrasonic machining process, which uses a slotted cutting tool instead of a common metal bonded diamond cutting tool as used in continuous rotary ultrasonic machining. There has been no reported study to compare the effects of intermittent RUM and continuous RUM when machining K9 glass. This paper, for the first time, presents an experimental investigation to compare intermittent RUM and continuous RUM when machining K9 glass from the perspectives of cutting force, surface roughness, and chipping size.
Impact of Cyclone Track Features and Tidal Phase Shift upon Surge Characteristics in the Bay of Bengal along the Bangladesh Coast
Authors: Hussain Mohammad Asad , Tajima Yoshimitsu , Hossain Mohammed Abed , Das Partho
Published: November 2017

The impact of cyclone track features (e.g., cyclone translation speed, cyclone path and cyclone landfall crossing angle) in combination with tidal phase shift upon surge characteristics have been investigated at the Bay of Bengal along the Bangladesh coast. A two-dimensional hydrodynamic model in a horizontal direction (2DH) coupled with a storm-surge model has been employed for the study. Numerical experiments with three different cyclone translation speeds show that when the surge height is directly forced by the cyclonic wind speed especially within the RWM (Radius of Maximum Wind), faster translation speed produces reduced surge height as the cyclone gets less time to force the water. On the other hand, at locations outside the RMW, surge waves travel as a propagating long wave where higher surges are produced by faster moving cyclones. It is found that surge arrival times are more and more affected by tidal phase when cyclone translation speed is reduced. Analysis of seven hypothetical parallel cyclone paths show that local bathymetry and complex coastline configurations strongly influence the surge height and surge arrival time along the Bangladesh coast. From the analyses of cyclone landfall crossing angles at the Khulna and Chittagong coasts, it is observed that surge durations are the smallest at both the coasts when the coastline crossing angles are the smallest.
The HMGB1/RAGE Pro-Inflammatory Axis in the Human Placenta: Modulating Effect of Low Molecular Weight Heparin
Authors: Zenerino Cristian , Nuzzo Anna , Giuffrida Domenica , Biolcati Marilisa , Zicari Alessandra , Todros Tullia , Rolfo Alessandro
Published: November 2017

We evaluated whether physiological and pre-eclamptic (PE) placentae, characterized by exacerbated inflammation, presented alterations in pro-inflammatory High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1) and its Receptor of Advanced Glycation End products (RAGE) expression. Moreover, we investigated, in physiological placental tissue, the ability of Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWH) to modify HMGB1 structural conformation thus inhibiting RAGE binding and HMGB1/RAGE axis inflammatory activity. HMGB1, RAGE, IL-6 and TNFα (HMGB1/RAGE targets) mRNA expression were assessed by Real Time PCR. HMGB1, RAGE protein levels were assessed by western blot assay. Physiological term placental explants were treated by 0.5 U LMWH for 24 or 48 h. HMGB1 and RAGE expression and association were evaluated in LMWH explants by RAGE immunoprecipitation followed by HMGB1 immunoblot. HMGB1 spatial localization was evaluated by immuofluorescent staining (IF). HMGB1 expression was increased in PE relative to physiological placentae while RAGE was unvaried. 24 h LMWH treatment significantly up-regulated HMGB1 expression but inhibited HMGB1/RAGE complex formation in physiological explants. RAGE expression decreased in treated relative to untreated explants at 48 h. IF showed HMGB1 localization in both cytoplasm and nucleus of mesenchymal and endothelial cells but not in the trophoblast. IL-6 and TNFα gene expression were significantly increased at 24 h relative to controls, while they were significantly down-regulated in 48 h vs. 24 h LMWH explants. Our data depicted a new molecular mechanism through which LMWH exerts its anti-inflammatory effect on PE placentae, underlying the importance of HMGB1/RAGE axis in PE inflammatory response.
Simultaneous Multi-Channel Microwave Photonic Signal Processing
Authors: Chen Lawrence , Moslemi Parisa , Ma Ming , Adams Rhys
Published: November 2017

Microwave photonic (MWP) systems exploit the advantages of photonics, especially with regards to ultrabroad bandwidth and adaptability, features that are significantly more challenging to obtain in the electronic domain. Thus, MWP systems can be used to realize a number of microwave signal processing functions including, amongst others, waveform generation and radio-frequency spectrum analysis (RFSA). In this paper, we review recent results on fiber and integrated approaches for simultaneous generation of multiple chirped microwave waveforms as well as multi-channel RFSA of ultrahigh repetition optical rate pulse trains.
Stochasticity in the Parasite-Driven Trait Evolution of Competing Species Masks the Distinctive Consequences of Distance Metrics
Authors: Buhat Christian , Talabis Dylan , Cueno Anthony , Gavina Maica , Babierra Ariel , Cuaresma Genaro , Rabajante Jomar
Published: November 2017

Various distance metrics and their induced norms are employed in the quantitative modeling of evolutionary dynamics. Minimization of these distance metrics, when applied to evolutionary optimization, are hypothesized to result in different outcomes. Here, we apply the different distance metrics to the evolutionary trait dynamics brought about by the interaction between two competing species infected by parasites (exploiters). We present deterministic cases showing the distinctive selection outcomes under the Manhattan, Euclidean, and Chebyshev norms. Specifically, we show how they differ in the time of convergence to the desired optima (e.g., no disease), and in the egalitarian sharing of carrying capacity between the competing species. However, when randomness is introduced to the population dynamics of parasites and to the trait dynamics of the competing species, the distinctive characteristics of the outcomes under the three norms become indistinguishable. Our results provide theoretical cases of when evolutionary dynamics using different distance metrics exhibit similar outcomes.
Materials and Life Science Experimental Facility (MLF) at the Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex II: Neutron Scattering Instruments
Authors: Nakajima Kenji , Kawakita Yukinobu , Itoh Shinichi , Abe Jun , Aizawa Kazuya , Aoki Hiroyuki , Endo Hitoshi , Fujita Masaki , Funakoshi Kenichi , Gong Wu , Harada Masahide , Harjo Stefanus , Hattori Takanori , Hino Masahiro , Honda Takashi , Hoshikawa Akinori , Ikeda Kazutaka , Ino Takashi , Ishigaki Toru , Ishikawa Yoshihisa , Iwase Hiroki , Kai Tetsuya , Kajimoto Ryoichi , Kamiyama Takashi , Kaneko Naokatsu , Kawana Daichi , Ohira-Kawamura Seiko , Kawasaki Takuro , Kimura Atsushi , Kiyanagi Ryoji , Kojima Kenji , Kusaka Katsuhiro , Lee Sanghyun , Machida Shinichi , Masuda Takatsugu , Mishima Kenji , Mitamura Koji , Nakamura Mitsutaka , Nakamura Shoji , Nakao Akiko , Oda Tatsuro , Ohhara Takashi , Ohishi Kazuki , Ohshita Hidetoshi , Oikawa Kenichi , Otomo Toshiya , Sano-Furukawa Asami , Shibata Kaoru , Shinohara Takenao , Soyama Kazuhiko , Suzuki Jun-ichi , Suzuya Kentaro , Takahara Atsushi , Takata Shin-ichi , Takeda Masayasu , Toh Yosuke , Torii Shuki , Torikai Naoya , Yamada Norifumi , Yamada Taro , Yamazaki Dai , Yokoo Tetsuya , Yonemura Masao , Yoshizawa Hideki
Published: November 2017

The neutron instruments suite, installed at the spallation neutron source of the Materials and Life Science Experimental Facility (MLF) at the Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex (J-PARC), is reviewed. MLF has 23 neutron beam ports and 21 instruments are in operation for user programs or are under commissioning. A unique and challenging instrumental suite in MLF has been realized via combination of a high-performance neutron source, optimized for neutron scattering, and unique instruments using cutting-edge technologies. All instruments are/will serve in world-leading investigations in a broad range of fields, from fundamental physics to industrial applications. In this review, overviews, characteristic features, and typical applications of the individual instruments are mentioned.
A Dual-Polymer Fiber Fizeau Interferometer for Simultaneous Measurement of Relative Humidity and Temperature
Authors: Ma Chao-Tsung , Chang Yu-Wei , Yang Yuan-Jie , Lee Cheng-Ling
Published: November 2017

This paper presents a novel design method in which a dual-polymer fiber Fizeau interferometer (DPFFI) is proposed for simultaneously measuring relative humidity (RH) and temperature (T). Since the polymer is intrinsically highly sensitive to both RH and T, the polymer fiber Fizeau interferometer (PFFI) exhibits cross-sensitivity of RH and T. In general, it is difficult to demodulate the optical responses from both variations of RH and T using a single PFFI. If two PFFIs with different structures are combined, they will individually exhibit distinct sensitivity responses with respect to RH and T, respectively. The technical problem of analyzing multiple interferences of the optical spectra of the DPFFI and the individual sensitivity of RH and T to each PFFI is obtained using the fast Fourier transform (FFT). A mathematical method is applied to solve the simultaneous equations of the DPFFI, so that the two variables RH and T can be determined at the same time. Experimental results, indicating good sensitivity and accuracy, with small measurement errors (average errors of ~1.46 °C and ~1.48%, respectively), are shown, determining the feasibility, and verifying the effectiveness, of the proposed DPFFI sensor.
Genomic Analysis of Third Generation Cephalosporin Resistant Escherichia coli from Dairy Cow Manure
Authors: Rehman Muhammad , Yin Xianhua , Lepp Dion , Laing Chad , Ziebell Kim , Talbot Guylaine , Topp Edward , Diarra Moussa
Published: November 2017

The production of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) conferring resistance to new derivatives of β-lactams is a major public health threat if present in pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria. The objective of this study was to characterize ceftiofur (TIO)- or cefotaxime (FOX)-resistant Escherichia coli isolated from dairy cow manure. Twenty-four manure samples were collected from four farms and incubated under anaerobic conditions for 20 weeks at 4 °C or at 25 °C. A total of 37 TIO- or FOX-resistant E. coli were isolated from two of the four farms to determine their susceptibility to 14 antibiotics. Among the 37 resistant E. coli, 10 different serotypes were identified, with O8:H1 being the predominant serotype (n = 17). Five isolates belonged to each of serotypes O9:NM and O153:H42, respectively. All 37 cephalosporin resistant isolates were multi-resistant with the most prevalent resistance spectrum being amoxicillin-clavulanic acid-ampicillin-cefoxitin-ceftiofur-ceftriaxone-chloramphenicol-streptomycin-sulfisoxazole-tetracycline-trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. The genomes of 18 selected isolates were then sequenced and compared to 14 selected human pathogenic E. coli reference genomes obtained from public repositories using different bioinformatics approaches. As expected, all 18 sequenced isolates carried at least one β-lactamase bla gene: TEM-1, TEM-81, CTX-M115, CTX-M15, OXA-1, or CMY-2. Several other antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and virulence determinants were detected in the sequenced isolates and all of them harbored antimicrobial resistance plasmids belonging to classic Inc groups. Our results confirm the presence of diverse ESBL producing E. coli isolates in dairy cow manure stored for a short period of time. Such manure might constitute a reservoir of resistance and virulence genes for other bacteria that share the same environment.
Circonstance et prédication verbale en français parlé : contraintes sémantico-pragmatiques et filtrage prosodique
Authors: Lacheret-Dujour Anne , François Jacques
Published: November 2017

Résumé Ce travail, consacré à l’étude des compléments circonstanciels au sein de la phrase verbale, a pour objet d’examiner leur statut dans les constructions prédicatives. Nous montrons que, dans bien des contextes, ce type de compléments, loin d’être accessoire, peut entretenir des relations étroites avec le noyau verbal. Pour étayer notre propos, nous proposons une représentation continue de la structure prédicative, qui permet, pour des cibles circonstancielles données en entrée, d’attribuer des degrés de rattachement variables au noyau verbal. L’analyse, centrée sur des corpus de parole spontanée en situation d’interview, repose sur la mise en relation d’observables prosodiques et d’instructions sémantico-pragmatiques sous-jacentes. L’hypothèse que nous souhaitons défendre consiste à voir les constructions intonatives comme des structures formelles travaillées directement par le sens et l’énonciation ; du point de vue de l’interlocuteur, elles constituent des indices robustes pour un décodage optimal des actes prédicatifs.
Cas locatifs et prédication
Authors: Renault Richard
Published: November 2017

Résumé M’appuyant sur la typologie des systèmes casuels de Hjelmslev, je propose de rendre compte du système des cas locatifs du finnois (6 à 9 cas) par une analyse en traits morphologiques. Les deux dimensions de ce système casuel – l’orientation et la localisation – sont décrites au moyen de traits renvoyant à des têtes fonctionnelles indépendantes sur le plan syntaxique et à des entités / fonctions sur le plan sémantique, et chacune d’elles repose sur une dépendance syntaxique distincte : l’orientation relève de la rection (réduite à la sous-catégorisation) tandis que la localisation relève de la prédication syntaxique.