bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Structure-Function Analyses to Protein Engineering for Practical Applications of DNA Ligase
Authors: Tanabe Maiko , Ishino Yoshizumi , Nishida Hirokazu
Published: October 2015

DNA ligases are indispensable in all living cells and ubiquitous in all organs. DNA ligases are broadly utilized in molecular biology research fields, such as genetic engineering and DNA sequencing technologies. Here we review the utilization of DNA ligases in a variety ofin vitrogene manipulations, developed over the past several decades. During this period, fewer protein engineering attempts for DNA ligases have been made, as compared to those for DNA polymerases. We summarize the recent progress in the elucidation of the DNA ligation mechanisms obtained from the tertiary structures solved thus far, in each step of the ligation reaction scheme. We also present some examples of engineered DNA ligases, developed from the viewpoint of their three-dimensional structures.
Interactions between Myc and Mediators of Inflammation in Chronic Liver Diseases
Authors: Liu Ting , Zhou Yu , Ko Kwang Suk , Yang Heping
Published: October 2015

Most chronic liver diseases (CLDs) are characterized by inflammatory processes with aberrant expressions of various pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory mediators in the liver. These mediators are the driving force of many inflammatory liver disorders, which often result in fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver tumorigenesis. c‐Myc is involved in many cellular events such as cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. c‐Myc upregulates IL‐8, IL‐10, TNF‐α, and TGF‐β, while IL‐1, IL‐2, IL‐4, TNF‐α, and TGF‐β promote c‐Myc expression. Their interactions play a central role in fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Molecular interference of their interactions offers possible therapeutic potential for CLDs. In this review, current knowledge of the molecular interactions between c‐Myc and various well known inflammatory mediators is discussed.
An Improved PID Algorithm Based on Insulin-on-Board Estimate for Blood Glucose Control with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Hu Ruiqiang , Li Chengwei
Published: October 2015

Automated closed-loop insulin infusion therapy has been studied for many years. In closed-loop system, the control algorithm is the key technique of precise insulin infusion. The control algorithm needs to be designed and validated. In this paper, an improved PID algorithm based on insulin-on-board estimate is proposed and computer simulations are done using a combinational mathematical model of the dynamics of blood glucose-insulin regulation in the blood system. The simulation results demonstrate that the improved PID algorithm can perform well in different carbohydrate ingestion and different insulin sensitivity situations. Compared with the traditional PID algorithm, the control performance is improved obviously and hypoglycemia can be avoided. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed control algorithm,in silicotesting is done using the UVa/Padova virtual patient software.
N‐Acetyl‐seryl‐aspartyl‐lysyl‐proline Alleviates Renal Fibrosis Induced by Unilateral Ureteric Obstruction in BALB/C Mice
Authors: Chan Gary C. W. , Yiu Wai Han , Wu Hao Jia , Wong Dickson W. L. , Lin Miao , Huang Xiao Ru , Lan Hui Yao , Tang Sydney C. W.
Published: October 2015

To expand the armamentarium of treatment for chronic kidney disease (CKD), we explored the utility of boosting endogenously synthesized N‐acetyl‐seryl‐aspartyl‐lysyl‐proline (Ac‐SDKP), which is augmented by inhibition of the angiotensin converting enzyme. Male BALB/c mice underwent unilateral ureteral ligation (UUO) or sham operation and received exogenously administered Ac‐SDKP delivered via a subcutaneous osmotic minipump or Captopril treatment by oral gavage. Seven days after UUO, there were significant reductions in the expression of both collagen 1 and collagen 3 in kidneys treated with Ac‐SDKP or Captopril, and there was a trend towards reductions in collagen IV, α‐SMA, and MCP‐1 versus control. However, no significant attenuation of interstitial injury or macrophage infiltration was observed. These findings are in contrary to observations in other models and underscore the fact that a longer treatment time frame may be required to yield anti‐inflammatory effects in BALB/c mice treated with Ac‐SDKP compared to untreated mice. Finding an effective treatment regimen for CKD requires fine‐tuning of pharmacologic protocols.
A Case Study of Intractable Vomiting with Final Diagnosis of Neuromyelitis Optica
Authors: Bramson Rachel , Hairrell Angela
Published: October 2015

This case study presents a patient living in a suburban/rural community who received appropriate referral to secondary and tertiary care for nausea and vomiting, accompanied by waxing and waning neurological symptoms, yet proved difficult to diagnose. This patient is presented to draw attention to a rare neurological disorder which should be included in the differential diagnosis of nausea and vomiting with some key neurological complaints, even in the absence of physical findings.
The Power of Phase I Studies to Detect Clinical Relevant QTc Prolongation: A Resampling Simulation Study
Authors: Ferber Georg , Lorch Ulrike , Täubel Jörg
Published: October 2015

Concentration-effect (CE) models applied to early clinical QT data from healthy subjects are described in the latest E14 Q&A document as promising analysis to characterise QTc prolongation. The challenges faced if one attempts to replace a TQT study by thorough ECG assessments in Phase I based on CE models are the assurance to obtain sufficient power and the establishment of a substitute for the positive control to show assay sensitivity providing protection against false negatives. To demonstrate that CE models in small studies can reliably predict the absence of an effect on QTc, we investigated the role of some key design features in the power of the analysis. Specifically, the form of the CE model, inclusion of subjects on placebo, and sparse sampling on the performance and power of this analysis were investigated. In this study, the simulations conducted by subsampling subjects from 3 different TQT studies showed that CE model with a treatment effect can be used to exclude small QTc effects. The number of placebo subjects was also shown to increase the power to detect an inactive drug preventing false positives while an effect can be underestimated if time points aroundtmaxare missed.
Giant Right Intrathoracic Myxoid Fusocellular Lipoma
Authors: Botianu Petre V. H. , Cerghizan Anda Mihaela , Botianu Alexandru M.
Published: October 2015

Intrathoracic lipomas are rare benign tumors; their behavior is not completely clear and their surgical removal may be challenging. We report a case of a giant right intrathoracic myxoid fusocellular lipoma compressing the lung, tracheobronchial tree, and esophagus which was removed through a posterolateral thoracotomy. Complete removal resulted in resolution of the chest pain and improvement of the dyspnea, with no recurrence at 4-year follow-up.
Angiotensinase C mRNA and Protein Downregulations Are Involved in Ethanol-Deteriorated Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Liu Jinyao , Hakucho Ayako , Fujimiya Tatsuya
Published: October 2015

The influences of angiotensinase C on ethanol-induced left ventricular (LV) systolic function were assessed in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). SHRs were fed by a liquid diet with or without ethanol for 49 days. The normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) were fed by the liquid diet without ethanol and used as control. We evaluated LV systolic function, angiotensinase C mRNA and protein expressions, activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), and the gene expressions of LV collagen (Col) III a1 and matrix metalloproteinases- (MMP-) 9. Compared to the WKY, LV systolic dysfunction (expressed by decreased fractional shortening and ejection fraction) was observed in the SHRs before ethanol treatment and further deteriorated by ethanol treatment. In the ethanol-treated SHRs, the following were observed: downregulations of angiotensinase C mRNA and protein, increased RAS activity with low collagen production as evidenced by angiotensin II and angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R) protein upregulation,AT1aR mRNA downregulation, and an MMP-9 mRNA expression upregulation trend with the downregulation of Col III a1 mRNA expression in LV. We conclude that chronic ethanol regimen is sufficient to promote the enhanced RAS activity-induced decrease in the production of cardiac collagen via downregulated angiotensinase C, leading to the further deterioration of LV systolic dysfunction in SHRs.
TCM Formula Xiaoyaosan Decoction Improves Depressive-Like Behaviors in Rats with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Li Na , Liu Qun , Li Xiao-Juan , Bai Xiao-Hui , Liu Yue-Yun , Zhao Hong-Bo , Jin Zhong-Ye , Jing Yu-Xia , Yan Zhi-Yi , Chen Jia-Xu
Published: October 2015

The mechanism of depression with type 2 diabetes remains elusive, requiring further study.Objective. To evaluate the effect of TCM formula Xiaoyaosan on depressive-like behaviors in rats with type 2 diabetes.Methods. Rats were divided into 5 groups and drugs were administered during the model period of 21 days. The model of depressive-like behaviors in rats with type 2 diabetes was induced by a high fat diet, low doses of STZ injection, and chronic restraint stress for 21 days. The body weight, fasting blood glucose, ITT, OGTT, 5-HT, DA, depression behaviors, and morphological changes of formation were measured and observed.Results. After modeling, marked changes were found in model rats; behavioral analyses of rats indicated that this modeling method negatively impacts locomotor function. In the H&E staining, changes were found predominately in the CA1 and DG subregions of the hippocampus. After 21 days of treatment by fluoxetine and Xiaoyaosan, rats’ body weights, behaviors and fasting blood glucose, and hippocampal formation were modified.Conclusions. A new model of depressive-like behaviors in rats with type 2 diabetes was successfully created. Xiaoyaosan and fluoxetine in this study independently contribute to exacerbate the disease progression.
Semantic-Based Requirements Content Management for Cloud Software
Authors: Hu Jianqiang , Jia Songhao , Wu Keshou
Published: October 2015

Cloud Software is a software complex system whose topology and behavior can evolve dynamically in Cloud-computing environments. Given the unpredictable, dynamic, elasticity, and on-demand nature of the Cloud, it would be unrealistic to assume that traditional software engineering can “cleanly” satisfy the behavioral requirements of Cloud Software. In particular, the majority of traditional requirements managements take document-centric approaches, which have low degree of automation, coarse-grained management, and limited support for requirements modeling activities. Facing the challenges, based on metamodeling frame called RGPS (Role-Goal-Process-Service) international standard, this paper firstly presents a hierarchical framework of semantic-based requirements content management for Cloud Software. And then, it focuses on some of the important management techniques in this framework, such as the native storage scheme, an ordered index with keywords, requirements instances classification based linear conditional random fields (CRFs), and breadth-first search algorithm for associated instances. Finally, a prototype tool called RGPS-RM for semantic-based requirements content management is implemented to provide supporting services for open requirements process of Cloud Software. The proposed framework applied to the Cloud Software development is demonstrated to show the validity and applicability. RGPS-RM also displays effect of fine-grained retrieval and breadth-first search algorithm for associated instance in visualization.
Research on Evaluation Method Based on Modified Buckley Decision Making and Bayesian Network
Authors: Yang Neng-pu , Han Mei , Chen Shi-yong , Liu Xiao-hua , Kang Liu-jiang
Published: October 2015

This work presents a novel evaluation method, which can be applied in the field of risk assessment, project management, cause analysis, and so forth. Two core technologies are used in the method, namely, modified Buckley Decision Making and Bayesian Network. Based on the modified Buckley Decision Making, the fuzzy probabilities of element factors are calibrated. By the forward and backward calculation of Bayesian Network, the structure importance, probability importance, and criticality importance of each factor are calculated and discussed. A numerical example of risk evaluation for dangerous goods transport process is given to verify the method. The results indicate that the method can efficiently identify the weakest element factor. In addition, the method can improve the reliability and objectivity for evaluation.
Adipogenic Activity of Wild Populations ofRhododendron groenlandicum, a Medicinal Shrub from the James Bay Cree Traditional Pharmacopeia
Authors: Rapinski Michel , Musallam Lina , Arnason John Thor , Haddad Pierre , Cuerrier Alain
Published: October 2015

The traditional medicinal plant, Labrador tea (Rhododendron groenlandicum(Oeder) Kron & Judd; Ericaceae), present in the pharmacopoeia of the Cree of Eeyou Istchee, has shown glitazone-like activity in the 3T3-L1 adipogenesis bioassay. This activity has been attributed to phenolic compounds, which have been shown to vary in this plant as a function of insolation parameters. The goal of this study was to determine if these changes in phenolic content were pharmacologically significant. Leaves were harvested in 2006 throughout the James Bay region of Northern Quebec and ethanol extracts were testedin vitrousing the 3T3-L1 murine cell line adipogenesis bioassay. This traditional medicinal plant was found active in the assay. However, there was no detectable spatial pattern in the accumulation of intracellular triglycerides, suggesting that such patterns previously observed in the phenolic profile of Labrador tea were not pharmacologically significant. Nonetheless, a reduction in the adipogenic activity was observed and associated with higher concentrations of quercetin for which selected environmental variables did not appropriately explain its variation.
Conductive Polymeric Composites Based on Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes and Linseed Oil Functionalized and Cross‐Linked with Diacetylenes from Propargyl Alcohol
Authors: Ramírez-Jiménez Alejandro , Hernández-López Susana , Vigueras-Santiago Enrique
Published: October 2015

Diacetylene‐functionalized epoxidized linseed oil (DAELO) matrix was synthesized in order to improve the dispersion of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) without the necessity of some chemical or physical modification of them. That fact was evidenced by the low critical concentration of DAELO‐based composites in comparison (1.0 wt% MWCNTs) with the epoxidized linseed oil‐ (ELO‐) based composites (5 wt% MWCNTs). For this, both series of composites were prepared by the ultrasonic dispersion method using the same conditions of solvent, dilution, and sonication time. It was shown that, tailoring the polymer matrix with groups rich in nonpolar electric density, as diacetylene, and capable of interacting by van der Waals forces, it is possible to improve the dispersion of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) without necessity of some modification knowing that those treatments usually affect lowering their electrical properties.
Biological Niches within Human Calcified Aortic Valves: Towards Understanding of the Pathological Biomineralization Process
Authors: Cottignoli Valentina , Relucenti Michela , Agrosì Giovanna , Cavarretta Elena , Familiari Giuseppe , Salvador Loris , Maras Adriana
Published: October 2015

Despite recent advances, mineralization site, its microarchitecture, and composition in calcific heart valve remain poorly understood. A multiscale investigation, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS), from micrometre up to nanometre, was conducted on human severely calcified aortic and mitral valves, to provide new insights into calcification process. Our aim was to evaluate the spatial relationship existing between bioapatite crystals, their local growing microenvironment, and the presence of a hierarchical architecture. Here we detected the presence of bioapatite crystals in two different mineralization sites that suggest the action of two different growth processes: a pathological crystallization process that occurs in biological niches and is ascribed to a purely physicochemical process and a matrix-mediated mineralized process in which the extracellular matrix acts as the template for a site-directed nanocrystals nucleation. Different shapes of bioapatite crystallization were observed at micrometer scale in each microenvironment but at the nanoscale level crystals appear to be made up by the same subunits.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Decreases the Stroke Risk of Systemic Corticosteroid Treatment in Dermatitis: A Nationwide Population-Based Study
Authors: Tsai Kao-Sung , Yen Chia-Sung , Wu Po-Yuan , Chiang Jen-Huai , Shen Jui-Lung , Yang Chung-Hsien , Chen Huey-Yi , Chen Yung-Hsiang , Chen Wen-Chi
Published: October 2015

Epidemiological studies have shown a strong association between dermatitis and stroke. Systemic corticosteroid, the mainstay treatment for dermatitis, could enhance the atherosclerotic process. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used for dermatitis to decrease the side effects of corticosteroid. However, the different stroke risk in dermatitis patients treated with systemic corticosteroid or TCM remains unclear. This study identified 235,220 dermatitis patients and same comorbidity matched subjects between 2000 and 2009 from database of NHRI in Taiwan. The two cohorts were followed until December 31, 2011. The primary outcome of interest was new diagnosis of stroke. The crude hazard ratio (HR) for future stroke among dermatitis patients treated with systemic corticosteroid was 1.40 (95% CI, 1.34–1.45;P<0.0001) and TCM was 1.09 (95% CI, 1.05–1.13;P<0.0001). The log-rank test showed a higher cumulative incidence of ischemic stroke in the patient treated with only systemic corticosteroid group than that treated with systemic corticosteroid and TCM, only TCM, and neither systemic corticosteroid nor TCM in the matched cohort during the follow-up period (P<0.0001). We demonstrated that patients treated with systemic corticosteroid had an increased risk of stroke and that the risk probably decreased by TCM treatment.
Efficient Massive Contents Distribution Strategy for P2P Using Sensor Smart Network
Authors: Kang Mi-Young , Nam Ji-Seung
Published: October 2015

An important problem in many P2P applications is how to efficiently disseminate massive contents from multiple sources to multiple receivers on the Internet. A successful model used for analyzing this problem is a graph that consisted of nodes and edges, with a capacity assigned to each edge. However, a scheme that can flexibly deal with the extreme network dynamic is required in order to realize the massive contents streaming service, because P2P networks are mostly formed in random fashion without good control of their topology. In this paper, we design and implement a scheme for the problem of efficient massive contents dissemination in a sensor smart network system.
Native Process Migration in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Hussain Syed Ishtiaq , Javed Huma , Khan Tehseen , Shazad Sara , Khalil Falak Naz
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a novel architecture for native process migration (PM) in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) without the use of virtual execution environment. Resources in WSN are scarce; therefore creating virtual execution environment puts extra burden on already stringent resources. In addition, the proposed architecture is migrating with complete process instead of code only which also saves resources. The proposed architecture makes process migration decisions by continuously monitoring resources, such as remaining battery life and free memory space on a node. The architecture is suitable for networks with fewer expensive sensor nodes as it allows for better utilization of network resources. Transferring a live executing process from one node to another to meet processing demands dynamically improves fault tolerance, resource utilization, and network management in WSN. The architecture has been successfully tested and implemented on both COOJA simulator and a test bed of TelosB motes.
Spatiotemporal Correlation Based Fault-Tolerant Event Detection in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Liu Kezhong , Zhuang Yang , Wang Zhibo , Ma Jie
Published: October 2015

Reliable event detection is one of the most important objectives in wireless sensor networks (WSNs), especially in the presence of faulty nodes. Existing fault-tolerant event detection approaches usually take the probability of faulty nodes into account and fusion techniques to weaken the influence of faulty readings are usually developed. Through extensive experiments, we discover a phenomenon that event detection accuracy degrades quickly when the faulty sensors ratio reaches a critical value. This problem has not drawn enough attention and a solution to the problem is our concern. In this paper, a spatiotemporal correlation based fault-tolerant event detection scheme (STFTED) is proposed, which leverages a two-stage decision fusion and spatiotemporal correlation to improve the event detection quality. In the low-level local stage, a location-based weighted voting scheme (LWVS) is developed to make decision fusion locally on each sensor node, which is based on neighboring nodes and the geographical distributions of two decision quorums. In the high-level global stage, a Bayesian fusion algorithm is adopted to reach a consensus among individual detection decisions made by sensor nodes. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed approach is highly effective and a better quality of event detection can be obtained compared with the optimal threshold decision schemes (OTDS).
Rolling Locomotion Control of a Biologically Inspired Quadruped Robot Based on Energy Compensation
Authors: Nemoto Takuma , Elara Mohan Rajesh , Iwase Masami
Published: October 2015

We have developed a biologically inspired reconfigurable quadruped robot which can perform walking and rolling locomotion and transform between walking and rolling by reconfiguring its legs. This paper presents an approach to control rolling locomotion with the biologically inspired quadruped robot. For controlling rolling locomotion, a controller which can compensate robot’s energy loss during rolling locomotion is designed based on a dynamic model of the quadruped robot. The dynamic model describes planar rolling locomotion based on an assumption that the quadruped robot does not fall down while rolling and the influences of collision and contact with the ground, and it is applied for computing the mechanical energy and a plant in a numerical simulation. The numerical simulation of rolling locomotion on the flat ground verifies the effectiveness of the proposed controller. The simulation results show that the quadruped robot can perform periodic rolling locomotion with the proposed energy-based controller. In conclusion, it is shown that the proposed control approach is effective in achieving the periodic rolling locomotion on the flat ground.
Design of Interference-Resilient Medium Access for High Throughput WLANs
Authors: Reggiani Luca , Gola Andrea , Maggio Gian Mario , Tiberi Gianluigi
Published: October 2015

The proliferation of wireless communications systems poses new challenges in terms of coexistence between heterogeneous devices operating within the same frequency bands. In fact, in case of high-density concentration of wireless devices, like indoor environments, the network performance is typically limited by the mutual interference among the devices themselves, such as for wireless local area networks (WLANs). In this paper, we analyze a protocol strategy for managing multiple access in wireless networks. A network of sensors colocated with the WLAN terminals forms a control layer for managing the medium access and scheduling resources in order to limit collisions and optimize the WLAN data traffic; this control layer is based on a low-power wideband technology characterized by interference robustness, like CDMA (code division multiple access) or UWB (ultra-wideband) for sensors. In this work, we perform an analytical and simulative performance study of the saturated throughput, showing numerical results for the UWB-IR (Impulse Radio) sensors case and highlighting the advantage that can be provided particularly in very high capacity systems, which constitute the necessary evolution of current WLAN versions.
Analysis of Individual Variations in Autonomic Responses to Urban and Forest Environments
Authors: Kobayashi Hiromitsu , Song Chorong , Ikei Harumi , Kagawa Takahide , Miyazaki Yoshifumi
Published: October 2015

Autonomic responses to urban and forest environments were studied in 625 young male subjects. The experimental sites were 57 forests and 57 urban areas across Japan. The subjects viewed the landscape (forest or urban environment) for a period of 15 min while sitting on a chair. During this period, heart rate variability (HRV) was monitored continuously. The results were presented as histograms and analyzed with special reference to individual variations. Approximately 80% of the subjects showed an increase in the parasympathetic indicator of HRV (lnHF), whereas the remaining subjects showed a decrease in the parasympathetic activity. Similarly, 64.0% of the subjects exhibited decreases in the sympathetic indicator of HRV (ln[LF/HF]), whereas the remaining subjects showed opposite responses. Analysis of the distribution of HRV indices (lnHF and ln[LF/HF]) demonstrated the effect of forest environments on autonomic activity more specifically than the conventional analysis based on the difference in mean values.
Metaheuristic Approaches for Hydropower System Scheduling
Authors: Hidalgo Ieda G. , Barros Regiane S. de , Fernandes Jéssica P. T. , Estrócio João Paulo F. , Correia Paulo B.
Published: October 2015

This paper deals with the short-term scheduling problem of hydropower systems. The objective is to meet the daily energy demand in an economic and safe way. The individuality of the generating units and the nonlinearity of their efficiency curves are taken into account. The mathematical model is formulated as a dynamic, mixed integer, nonlinear, nonconvex, combinatorial, and multiobjective optimization problem. We propose two solution methods using metaheuristic approaches. They combine Genetic Algorithm with Strength Pareto Evolutionary Algorithm and Ant Colony Optimization. Both approaches are divided into two phases. In the first one, to maximize the plant’s net generation, the problem is solved for each hour of the day (static dispatch). In the second phase, to minimize the units’ switching on-off, the day is considered as a whole (dynamic dispatch). The proposed methodology is applied to two Brazilian hydroelectric plants, in cascade, that belong to the national interconnected system. The nondominated solutions from both approaches are presented. All of them meet demand respecting the physical, electrical, and hydraulic constraints.
A Cognitive Adopted Framework for IoT Big-Data Management and Knowledge Discovery Prospective
Authors: Mishra Nilamadhab , Lin Chung-Chih , Chang Hsien-Tsung
Published: October 2015

In future IoT big-data management and knowledge discovery for large scale industrial automation application, the importance of industrial internet is increasing day by day. Several diversified technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things), computational intelligence, machine type communication, big-data, and sensor technology can be incorporated together to improve the data management and knowledge discovery efficiency of large scale automation applications. So in this work, we need to propose a Cognitive Oriented IoT Big-data Framework (COIB-framework) along with implementation architecture, IoT big-data layering architecture, and data organization and knowledge exploration subsystem for effective data management and knowledge discovery that is well-suited with the large scale industrial automation applications. The discussion and analysis show that the proposed framework and architectures create a reasonable solution in implementing IoT big-data based smart industrial applications.
Anti-Inflammatory and Anticancer Activities of Taiwanese Purple-Fleshed Sweet Potatoes (Ipomoea batatasL. Lam) Extracts
Authors: Sugata Marcelia , Lin Chien-Yih , Shih Yang-Chia
Published: October 2015

Purple-fleshed sweet potato (PFSP) (Ipomoea batatasL. Lam) has been known to possess high amount of anthocyanins which contribute to its antioxidant activity. However, a few reports are available concerning its anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. In this study, PFSP “Tainung 73,” which is locally grown in Taiwan, was steamed and extracted using acidified ethanol pH 3.5 under 80°C. Two kinds of crude anthocyanins extracts were obtained, namely, SP (Steamed, Peeled) and SNP (Steamed, No Peeled). Then, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities of these extracts were investigated. Cell viability assay (MTT) showed that SP and SNP extracts were not toxic to RAW 264.7 cells. They even exhibited anti-inflammatory activities by suppressing the production of NO and proinflammatory cytokines, such as NF-κβ, TNF-α, and IL-6, in LPS-induced macrophage cells. Anticancer activities of these extracts were displayed through their ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cell lines, such as MCF-7 (breast cancer), SNU-1 (gastric cancer), and WiDr (colon adenocarcinoma), in concentration- and time-dependent manner. Further studies also revealed that SP extracts could induce apoptosis in MCF-7 and SNU-1 cancer cells through extrinsic and intrinsic pathway. In the future, PSFP extracts may have potential to be applied in nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and food industries.
Development and Motion Testing of a Robotic Ray
Authors: He Jianhui , Zhang Yonghua
Published: October 2015

Biomimetics takes nature as a model for inspiration to immensely help abstract new principles and ideas to develop various devices for real applications. In order to improve the stability and maneuvering of biomimetic fish like underwater propulsors, we selected bluespotted ray that propel themselves by taking advantage of their pectoral fins as target. First, a biomimetic robotic undulating fin driven propulsor was built based on the simplified pectoral structure of living bluespotted ray. The mechanical structure and control circuit were then presented. The fin undulating motion patterns, fin ray angle, and fin shape to be investigated are briefly introduced. Later, the kinematic analysis of fin ray and the whole fin is discussed. The influence of various kinematic parameters and morphological parameters on the average propulsion velocity of the propulsor was analyzed. Finally, we conclude that the average propulsion velocity generally increases with the increase of kinematic parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and wavelength, respectively. Moreover, it also has a certain relationship with fin undulating motion patterns, fin ray angle, fin shape, and fin aspect ratio.
Effects of Berberine on Cell Cycle, DNA, Reactive Oxygen Species, and Apoptosis in L929 Murine Fibroblast Cells
Authors: Gu Manman , Xu Jing , Han Chunyang , Kang Youxi , Liu Tengfei , He Yanfei , Huang Yanfei , Liu Cuiyan
Published: October 2015

Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid isolated from several traditional Chinese herbal medicines (TCM), exhibits a strong antimicrobial activity in the treatment of diarrhea. However, it causes human as well as animal toxicity from heavy dosage. The present study was conducted to investigate the cytotoxicity of berberine and its possible trigger mechanisms resulting in cell cycle arrest, DNA damage, ROS (reactive oxygen species) level, mitochondrial membrane potential change, and cell apoptosis in L929 murine fibroblast (L929) cells. The cells were culturedin vitroand treated with different concentrations of berberine for 24 h. The results showed that cell viability was significantly decreased in a subjected dose-dependent state; berberine concentrations were higher than 0.05 mg/mL. Berberine at a concentration above 0.1 mg/mL altered the morphology of L929 cells. Cells at G2/M phase were clear that the level of ROS and cell apoptosis rates increased in 0.1 mg/mL group. Each DNA damage indicator score (DIS) increased in groups where concentration of berberine was above 0.025 mg/mL. The mitochondrial membrane potential counteractive balance mechanics were significantly altered when concentrations of berberine were above 0.005 mg/mL. In all, the present study suggested that berberine at high dosage exhibited cytotoxicity on L929 which was related to resultant: cell cycle arrest; DNA damage; accumulation of intracellular ROS; reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential; and cell apoptosis.
Are Endothelial Progenitor Cells the Real Solution for Cardiovascular Diseases? Focus on Controversies and Perspectives
Authors: Balistreri Carmela R. , Buffa Silvio , Pisano Calogera , Lio Domenico , Ruvolo Giovanni , Mazzesi Giuseppe
Published: October 2015

Advanced knowledge in the field of stem cell biology and their ability to provide a cue for counteracting several diseases are leading numerous researchers to focus their attention on “regenerative medicine” as possible solutions for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). However, the lack of consistent evidence in this arena has hampered the clinical application. The same condition affects the research on endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), creating more confusion than comprehension. In this review, this aspect is discussed with particular emphasis. In particular, we describe biology and physiology of EPCs, outline their clinical relevance as both new predictive, diagnostic, and prognostic CVD biomarkers and therapeutic agents, discuss advantages, disadvantages, and conflicting data about their use as possible solutions for vascular impairment and clinical applications, and finally underline a very crucial aspect of EPCs “characterization and definition,” which seems to be the real cause of large heterogeneity existing in literature data on this topic.
Ketamine, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, and Depression Specific Yoga and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy in Management of Treatment Resistant Depression: Review and Some Data on Efficacy
Authors: Pradhan Basant , Parikh Tapan , Makani Ramkrishna , Sahoo Madhusmita
Published: October 2015

Depression affects about 121 million people worldwide and prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD) in US adults is 6.4%. Treatment resistant depression (TRD) accounts for approximately 12–20% of all depression patients and costs $29–$48 billion annually. Ketamine and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) have useful roles in TRD, but their utility in long term is unknown. As per the latest literature, the interventions using Yoga and meditation including the mindfulness based cognitive therapy (MBCT) have been useful in treatment of depression and relapse prevention. We present a review of rTMS, ketamine, and MBCT and also report efficacy of a depression specific, innovative, and translational model of Yoga and mindfulness based cognitive therapy (DepS Y-MBCT), developed by the first author.DepS Y-MBCTas an adjunctive treatment successfully ameliorated TRD symptoms in 27/32 patients in an open label pilot trial in TRD patients. Considering the limitations of existing treatment options, including those of ketamine and rTMS when used as the sole modality of treatment, we suggest a “tiered approach for TRD” by combining ketamine and rTMS (alone or along with antidepressants) for rapid remission of acute depression symptoms and to useDepS Y-MBCTfor maintaining remission and preventing relapse.
Self‐Consistent Calculation on the Time‐Dependent Electrons Transport Properties of a Quantum Wire
Authors: Chuen J. , Li D. Y. , Tian Y. , Shao L. X.
Published: October 2015

Responses of a quantum wire (QW) connected with wide reservoirs to time‐dependent external voltages are investigated in self‐consistent manner. Distributions of the internal potential and the induced charge density, capacitance, and conductance are calculated. Results indicate that these physical quantities depend strongly on the Fermi energy of systems and the frequency of external voltages. With the increase of the Fermi energy, capacitance and conductance show some resonant peaks due to the open of the next higher quantum channels and the oscillations related to the longitudinal resonant electron states. Frequency‐dependent conductance shows two different responses to the external voltages, inductive‐like and capacitive‐like; and the peaks structure of capacitance is related to the plasmon‐like excitation in mesoscopic conductor.
Weight Optimization in Recurrent Neural Networks with Hybrid Metaheuristic Cuckoo Search Techniques for Data Classification
Authors: Nawi Nazri Mohd , Khan Abdullah , Rehman M. Z. , Chiroma Haruna , Herawan Tutut
Published: October 2015

Recurrent neural network (RNN) has been widely used as a tool in the data classification. This network can be educated with gradient descent back propagation. However, traditional training algorithms have some drawbacks such as slow speed of convergence being not definite to find the global minimum of the error function since gradient descent may get stuck in local minima. As a solution, nature inspired metaheuristic algorithms provide derivative-free solution to optimize complex problems. This paper proposes a new metaheuristic search algorithm called Cuckoo Search (CS) based on Cuckoo bird’s behavior to train Elman recurrent network (ERN) and back propagation Elman recurrent network (BPERN) in achieving fast convergence rate and to avoid local minima problem. The proposed CSERN and CSBPERN algorithms are compared with artificial bee colony using BP algorithm and other hybrid variants algorithms. Specifically, some selected benchmark classification problems are used. The simulation results show that the computational efficiency of ERN and BPERN training process is highly enhanced when coupled with the proposed hybrid method.
A Simple Predictive Method of Critical Flicker Detection for Human Healthy Precaution
Authors: Zai Peng Goh , Radzi Mohd Amran Mohd , Hizam Hashim , Abdul Wahab Noor Izzri
Published: October 2015

Interharmonics and flickers have an interrelationship between each other. Based on International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) flicker standard, the critical flicker frequency for a human eye is located at 8.8 Hz. Additionally, eye strains, headaches, and in the worst case seizures may happen due to the critical flicker. Therefore, this paper introduces a worthwhile research gap on the investigation of interrelationship between the amplitudes of the interharmonics and the critical flicker for 50 Hz power system. Consequently, the significant findings obtained in this paper are the amplitudes of two particular interharmonics are able to detect the critical flicker. In this paper, the aforementioned amplitudes are detected by adaptive linear neuron (ADALINE). After that, the critical flicker is detected by substituting the aforesaid amplitudes to the formulas that have been generated in this paper accordingly. Simulation and experimental works are conducted and the accuracy of the proposed algorithm which utilizes ADALINE is similar, as compared to typical Fluke power analyzer. In a nutshell, this simple predictive method for critical flicker detection has strong potential to be applied in any human crowded places (such as offices, shopping complexes, and stadiums) for human healthy precaution purpose due to its simplicity.
Investigation of Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):Poly(styrenesulfonate) Hole Transport Layer for Solution-Processed Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Chengxi , Cheng Jiang , Liao Xiaoqing , Lian Xiaojuan , Zhang Jin , Yang Xin , Li Lu
Published: October 2015

The inverted polymer solar cell was prepared by self-made spray-coating system, and the poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) hole transport layer was studied. 220 nm poly-(3-hexylthiophene):[6,6]-phenylC61butyric-acid methyl-ester (P3HT:PCBM) and 40 nm PEDOT:PSS were deposited on ZnO thin film subsequently by solution spray coating. Different volume of isopropyl alcohol was introduced into PEDOT:PSS to decrease the contact angle and obtain the optimum Marangoni flow. The surface morphology and roughness of PEDOT:PSS films were characterized by atomic force microscopy with varied deposition temperature from 70°C to 160°C. The improvement of power conversion efficiency (PCE) was attributed to the enhancement of vertical phase separation in PEDOT:PSS film, which improved the charge transfer in the bulk cell. The highest PCE of spray-coated PSCs reached 2.80% after postannealing for 10 min.
KD-ACP: A Software Framework for Social Computing in Emergency Management
Authors: Chen Bin , Zhang Laobing , Guo Gang , Qiu Xiaogang
Published: October 2015

This paper addresses the application of a computational theory and related techniques for studying emergency management in social computing. We propose a novel software framework called KD-ACP. The framework provides a systematic and automatic platform for scientists to study the emergency management problems in three aspects: modelling the society in emergency scenario as the artificial society; investigating the emergency management problems by the repeat computational experiments; parallel execution between artificial society and the actual society managed by the decisions from computational experiments. The software framework is composed of a series of tools. These tools are categorized into three parts corresponding to “A,” “C,” and “P,” respectively. Using H1N1 epidemic in Beijing city as the case study, the modelling and data generating of Beijing city, experiments with settings of H1N1, and intervention measures and parallel execution by situation tool are implemented by KD-ACP. The results output by the software framework shows that the emergency response decisions can be tested to find a more optimal one through the computational experiments. In the end, the advantages of the KD-ACP and the future work are summarized in the conclusion.
Effect ofRhizoma coptidis(Huang Lian) on Treating Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Pang Bing , Yu Xiao-Tong , Zhou Qiang , Zhao Tian-Yu , Wang Han , Gu Cheng-Juan , Tong Xiao-Lin
Published: October 2015

The rapidly increasing diabetes mellitus (DM) is becoming a major public health issue globally; considerable progress has been made in the field of western hypoglycemic drug and insulin, but some shortages still exist. As one of the most important parts in complementary and alternative therapies, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) performs a good clinical practice and is showing a bright future in the treatment of DM. TCM therapy has certain advantages of less toxicity and/or side effects, and Chinese herbal medicine which usually contains various active ingredients could provide multiple therapeutic effects. Huang Lian (Rhizoma coptidis, RC) is a herb frequently used in many traditional formulas for properties of “clearing damp-heat, quenching fire, and counteracting poison” in Asia for centuries. In this review, we summarize the application ofRCin the treatment of DM from two aspects of contents. Firstly, theoretical principles are explained, including the properties and related records aboutRCin ancient references and modern pharmacological researches and pharmacokinetics onRCand its active components. Secondly, the clinical application ofRCis mainly reviewed, such as applicable stage and syndrome, the reasonable dose range, the preparation formulations, and the toxicity and/or side effects and solutions to its adverse actions. This review provides scientific evidence about the effective components, pharmacological researches, and toxicity ofRC, as well as introducing traditional Chinese medical theory and clinical experience, in order to guide clinician to useRCmore suitably and reasonably in the clinical practice.
Age, Tumor Characteristics, and Treatment Regimen as Event Predictors in Ewing: A Children’s Oncology Group Report
Authors: Marina Neyssa , Granowetter Linda , Grier Holcombe E. , Womer Richard B. , Randall R. Lor , Marcus Karen J. , McIlvaine Elizabeth , Krailo Mark
Published: October 2015

Purpose. To associate baseline patient characteristics and relapse across consecutive COG studies.Methods. We analyzed risk factors for LESFT patients in three randomized COG trials. We evaluated age at enrollment, primary site, gender, tumor size, and treatment (as randomized). We estimated event-free survival (EFS, Kaplan-Meier) and compared risk across groups (log-rank test). Characteristics were assessed by proportional hazards regression with the characteristic of interest as the only component. Confidence intervals (CI) for RR were derived. Factors related to outcome at level 0.05 were included in a multivariate regression model.Results. Between 12/1988 and 8/2005, 1444 patients were enrolled and data current to 2001, 2004, or 2008 were used. Patients were with a median age of 12 years (0–45), 55% male and 88% Caucasian. The 5-year EFS was 68.3% ± 1.3%. In univariate analysis age, treatment, and tumor location were identified for inclusion in the multivariate model, and all remained significant (p< 0.01). Since tumor size was not collected in the last study, the other two were reanalyzed. This model identified age, treatment, tumor location, and tumor size as significant predictors.Conclusion. Age > 18 years, pelvic tumor, size > 8 cms, and chemotherapy without ifosfamide/etoposide significantly predict worse outcome. AEWS0031 isNCT00006734, INT0091 and INT0054 designed before 1993 (unregistered).
A Cross-Layer-Based Routing Protocol for Ad Hoc Cognitive Radio Networks
Authors: Joshi Gyanendra Prasad , Nam Seung Yeob , Kim Chang-Su , Kim Sung Won
Published: October 2015

This paper proposes a cross-layer-based routing protocol for mobile ad hoc cognitive radio networks. The routing layer receives the spectrum-availability-related information from the medium access control layer and selects the next hop node on the route according to the spectrum information. This paper examines the expectation of channel switching in a range of scenarios and proposes a novel route selection method to mitigate the frequent channel switching. The proposed protocol distributes the routing overheads among secondary users in the network and prolongs the network lifetime. An extensive simulation was performed to evaluate the proposed approach, and the results showed that the proposed protocol extends the network lifetime and maintains a higher data delivery ratio.