bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ADP-Ribosyltransferase Domain of the Effector Protein ExoS Inhibits Phagocytosis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa during Pneumonia
Authors: Rangel Stephanie M. , Logan Latania K. , Hauser Alan R.
Published: June 2014

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is a Gram-negative pathogen commonly associated with nosocomial infections such as hospital-acquired pneumonia. It uses a type III secretion system to deliver effector proteins directly into the cytosol of host cells. Type III secretion in
P. aeruginosa
has been linked to severe disease and worse clinical outcomes in animal and human studies. The majority of
P. aeruginosa
strains secrete ExoS, a bifunctional toxin with GTPase-activating protein and ADP-ribosyltransferase activities. Numerous
in vitro
studies have investigated the targets and cellular effects of ExoS, linking both its enzymatic activities with inhibition of bacterial internalization. However, little is known about how this toxin facilitates the progression of infection
in vivo
. In this study, we used a mouse model to investigate the role of ExoS in inhibiting phagocytosis during pneumonia. We first confirmed previous findings that the ADP-ribosyltransferase activity of ExoS, but not the GTPase-activating protein activity, was responsible for bacterial persistence and decreased host survival in this model. We then used two distinct assays to demonstrate that ExoS inhibited phagocytosis during pneumonia. In contrast to the findings of several
in vitro
studies, this
in vivo
inhibition was also dependent on the ADP-ribosyltransferase activity, but not the GTPase-activating protein activity, of ExoS. These results demonstrate for the first time the antiphagocytic function of ExoS in the context of an actual infection and indicate that blocking the ADP-ribosyltransferase activity of ExoS may have potential therapeutic benefit.

IMPORTANCE
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is a major cause of hospital-acquired infections. To cause severe disease, this bacterium uses a type III secretion system that delivers four effector proteins, ExoS, ExoT, ExoU, and ExoY, into host cells. The majority of
P. aeruginosa
strains secrete ExoS, a bifunctional toxin with GTPase-activating protein and ADP-ribosyltransferase activities. In cell culture models, both enzymatic activities have been associated with decreased bacterial internalization. However, our study is the first to examine a role for ExoS in blocking phagocytosis in an animal model. We report that ExoS does inhibit phagocytosis during pneumonia. The ADP-ribosyltransferase activity, but not the GTPase-activating protein activity, of ExoS is necessary for this effect. Our findings highlight the ability of
P. aeruginosa
to manipulate the inflammatory response during pneumonia to facilitate bacterial survival.
Metastatic spinal abscesses from diabetic foot osteomyelitis
Authors: Shaho Shang , Khan Shaila , Huda MS Bobby , Chowdhury Tahseen Ahmad
Published: June 2014

A 66-year-old man with long-standing type 2 diabetes, nephropathy and neuropathy was admitted acutely with an infected left big toe neuropathic ulcer, with underlying osteomyelitis. His condition rapidly deteriorated with sepsis and right lobar pneumonia. Microbiology grew methicillin-sensitiveStaphylococcus aureus. Shortly into his admission, he developed flaccid paraparesis, and an MRI showed multiple epidural abscesses with likely cord infarction, not amenable to surgical intervention. His sepsis resolved, but his paraparesis remained severe, requiring spinal rehabilitation.
Systematic review of incidence and complications of herpes zoster: towards a global perspective
Authors: Kawai Kosuke , Gebremeskel Berhanu G , Acosta Camilo J
Published: June 2014

Objective

The objective of this study was to characterise the incidence rates of herpes zoster (HZ), also known as shingles, and risk of complications across the world.

Design

We systematically reviewed studies examining the incidence rates of HZ, temporal trends of HZ, the risk of complications including postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and HZ-associated hospitalisation and mortality rates in the general population. The literature search was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE and the WHO library up to December 2013.

Results

We included 130 studies conducted in 26 countries. The incidence rate of HZ ranged between 3 and 5/1000 person-years in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific, based on studies using prospective surveillance, electronic medical record data or administrative data with medical record review. A temporal increase in the incidence of HZ was reported in the past several decades across seven countries, often occurring before the introduction of varicella vaccination programmes. The risk of developing PHN varied from 5% to more than 30%, depending on the type of study design, age distribution of study populations and definition. More than 30% of patients with PHN experienced persistent pain for more than 1 year. The risk of recurrence of HZ ranged from 1% to 6%, with long-term follow-up studies showing higher risk (5–6%). Hospitalisation rates ranged from 2 to 25/100 000 person-years, with higher rates among elderly populations.

Conclusions

HZ is a significant global health burden that is expected to increase as the population ages. Future research with rigorous methods is important.
Safer cycling in the urban road environment: study approach and protocols guiding an Australian study
Authors: Stevenson Mark , Johnson Marilyn , Oxley Jennie , Meuleners Lynn , Gabbe Belinda , Rose Geoffrey
Published: June 2014

Background

Much of the research into cyclist safety in Australia has focused on behaviour with less focus on the impact of the urban transport environment on cyclist safety. A greater understanding of the urban transport system and the improvements needed to create a safer cycling environment are essential if cyclists are to be safe and increased cycling participation targets are to be achieved. The proposed study will use existing cyclist crash data along with unique cyclist exposure data to develop road infrastructure prototypes that improve cyclists’ safety and evaluate the effectiveness of these prototypes in a cycling simulator.

Methods and design

This study will be conducted in two Australian cities namely Perth and Melbourne as both cities have policies that strongly advocate cycling. Two methods of data collection will be employed: (1) in-depth crash investigations of injured cyclists; and (2) video footage of cyclist exposure through a naturalistic cycling study of non-injured cyclists. The findings from these two methods will be used to develop new urban road design prototypes which will be tested with a sample of cyclists and motorists in safe environment namely, a cycling simulator and a driving simulator.

Discussion

By designing and evaluating safer environments for cyclists, this study will identify solutions that reduce the risk of road trauma and importantly, support this alternative mode of transport and thereby contribute to a reduction in traffic-related emissions and pollution and enhance sustainable economic and social connectivity.
Reasons provided for requesting a termination of pregnancy in the UK
Authors: Wokoma Tonye Telema , Jampala Malathi , Bexhell Helen , Guthrie Kate A , Lindow Stephen W
Published: June 2014

Objective

To determine the main reasons for termination of pregnancy (TOP) requests in a UK city.

Design

A survey requesting reasons for a pregnancy termination from women attending a TOP clinic.

Setting

A TOP pre-assessment clinic in Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals, UK.

Population

A cohort of pregnant women requesting a TOP in the first trimester.

Methods

A confidential, anonymous, self-administered questionnaire requesting demographic information about age, education, ethnicity and marital status. The questionnaire also asked for the main reasons underlying the TOP request. The main outcome measures were (1) reasons for TOP requests and (2) correlations between the reasons provided and demographic characteristics.

Results

A total of 274 women participated in the study and 527 reasons were given. The most common reason was money worries (21.0%) followed closely by contraception failure (20.5%). The third most common reason was the anticipated effect on education or the woman's career (14.6%) Over half (59.5%) of the women were single and 8.8% were divorced or separated. Twenty-eight per cent of the respondents were aged 21 years and below, 36.1% were aged 22–29 years and 29.2% were over 30 years of age.

Conclusions

The main reasons for TOP requests included financial constraints, contraceptive failure, completion of family, and potential interruption of education or career. These reasons differed with age groups and marital status. Focused qualitative research on reasons for a TOP will provide further knowledge and understanding that is needed to enable optimal service provision and policy planning.
Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation: an update
Authors: De Backer O , Arnous S , Ihlemann N , Vejlstrup N , Jørgensen E , Pehrson S , Krieger T D W , Meier P , Søndergaard L , Franzen O W
Published: June 2014

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia encountered in clinical practice. One of its most devastating complications is the development of thromboembolism leading to fatal or disabling stroke. Oral anticoagulation (OAC, warfarin) is the standard treatment for stroke prevention in patients with AF with an increased stroke risk. However, there are several obstacles to long-term OAC therapy, including the risk of serious bleeding, several drug–drug interactions and the need for frequent blood testing. Although newer oral anticoagulants have been developed, these drugs also face issues of major bleeding and non-compliance. Therefore, alternative treatment options for stroke prevention in patients with AF with a high stroke risk are needed. Percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion is an evolving therapy, which should be taken into consideration in those patients with non-valvular AF with a high stroke risk and contraindications for OAC. This article aims to discuss the rationale for LAA closure, the available LAA occlusion devices and their clinical evidence until now. Moreover, we discuss the importance of proper patient selection, the role of various imaging techniques and the need for a more tailored postprocedural antithrombotic therapy.
Optimization of snow plowing cost and time in an urban environment: A case study for the City of Edmonton
Authors: Liu Gang , Ge Yongfeng , Qiu Tony Z. , Soleymani Hamid R.
Published: June 2014

Each winter, Canadian municipalities deploy significant capital for snow plowing. Any improvements to snowplow operations not only results in significant capital savings for municipalities and road agencies, but also improves roadway safety and user mobility. In the existing research, routing snowplow operations is generally considered a network optimization problem; however, the formulations and solutions can be very diverse, as each urban area has unique environmental conditions and operational constraints. For a specific district and depot, the problem is determining a set of routes that ensure that all road links are serviced, all operational constraints are satisfied, and total operational costs are minimized. This study used a mathematical optimization model based on the capacitated arc routing problem (CARP) to minimize the total travel distance for snowplow operations in the City of Edmonton. Depot location and route number are critical input parameters to the operation cost control. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to not only derive snowplow routing strategies using the CARP methodology, but also draw useful conclusions for winter road maintenance planners.
Multiple-pathway succession in coastal Tsuga heterophylla, Thuja plicata, and Abies amabilis forests on northeastern Vancouver Island, British Columbia
Authors: Weber Adrian , Kimmins J.P. (Hamish) , Gilbert Benjamin , Lo Yueh-Hsin , Blanco Juan A.
Published: June 2014

Sustainable forest practices are often designed to mimic natural disturbance and successional processes, yet succession is poorly understood in many ecosystems. On northeastern Vancouver Island, the “disturbance hypothesis” is a widely assumed succession model asserting that shade-tolerant western redcedar (Thuja plicata Donn ex D. Don) and the ericaceous shrub salal (Gaultheria shallon Pursh) invade and colonize highly productive western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla (Raf.) Sarg.) – Pacific silver fir (Abies amabilis Douglas ex J. Forbes) stands (HA) on zonal sites in the absence of stand-replacing wind disturbance. This leads to the development of low-productivity, low-density, uneven-aged, open-crowned redcedar–hemlock–salal stands (CH). In conflict with this model, old, apparently stable HA stands lacking redcedar can be found on such sites as well. We sought evidence for the predicted transition to CH stands by examining stand composition, crown closure, tree size class frequency distributions, salal cover, and redcedar establishment on young HA (∼90 years old), old HA (>160 years), and CH (>160 years) stands. When adjacent to a redcedar stand, young HA stands had fewer redcedar seedlings but more redcedar adult trees than old HA stands. However, redcedar abundance did not differ between young and old HA stands at distances further than 10 m from adjacent redcedar stands. This could indicate that redcedar recruits into HA stands at stand establishment and that redcedar seedling establishment is low under the thick canopy of young HA stands. The chronosequence data also suggest that both old HA and CH stands are self-replacing stand types in these forests, contrary to the disturbance hypothesis. We develop a new, multipathway model for this ecosystem that is based on the chronosequence data and life-history traits of the focal tree species and suggest that disturbance plays a role opposite to the equilibrium model.
A historical perspective on modified Newtonian dynamics
Authors: Sanders R.H.
Published: June 2014

I review the history and development of modified Newtonian dynamics (MOND) beginning with the phenomenological basis as it existed in the early 1980s. I consider Milgrom’s papers of 1983 introducing the idea and its consequences for galaxies and galaxy groups, as well as the initial reactions, both negative and positive. The early criticisms were primarily on matters of principle, such as the absence of conservation laws and perceived cosmological problems; an important step in addressing these issues was the development of the Lagrangian-based nonrelativistic theory of Bekenstein and Milgrom. This theory led to the development of a tentative relativistic theory that formed the basis for later multifield theories of gravity. On an empirical level the predictive success of the idea with respect to the phenomenology of galaxies presents considerable challenges for cold dark matter. For MOND the essential challenge remains the absence of a generally accepted theoretical underpinning of the idea and, thus, cosmological predictions. I briefly review recent progress in this direction. Finally I discuss the role and sociology of unconventional ideas in astronomy in the presence of a strongly entrenched standard paradigm.
Context dependence of elk (Cervus elaphus) vigilance and wolf (Canis lupus) predation risk
Authors: Eisenberg Cristina , Hibbs David E. , Ripple William J. , Salwasser Hal
Published: June 2014

To assess the relationship between predation risk perceived by elk (Cervus elaphus L., 1758) as evidenced by vigilance, we conducted focal animal observations in elk winter range. We stratified our observations in Glacier National Park, Montana, USA, and Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada, in valleys with three wolf (Canis lupus L., 1758) population levels (Saint Mary Valley: no wolf; Waterton Valley: moderate wolf; North Fork Valley: high wolf). Although the lowest elk vigilance occurred in Saint Mary and the highest in the North Fork, our analysis revealed a complex picture. Our model included distance to forest edge, group size, distance to road, social class, and impediments to detecting and escaping wolves. In Saint Mary, none of the variables were significant. In Waterton, vigilance decreased as elk group size increased (p < 0.00001) and increased as impediments increased (p = 0.0005). In the North Fork, vigilance increased as group size increased (p = 0.03), bulls were more vigilant (p = 0.02), and the interaction between group size and impediments was significant (p = 0.03). Where a high wolf population existed, elk did not exhibit uniform or expected response to predation risk factors. High wolf presence may necessitate adaptive elk behaviour that differs from response to moderate wolf presence.
Incomplete pole orientation of kinetochores in complex meiotic metaphase I configurations delays metaphase–anaphase transition inSecale
Authors: Sybenga J.
Published: June 2014

To prevent unbalanced chromosome segregation, meiotic metaphase I – anaphase I transition is carefully regulated by delaying anaphase until all kinetochores are well oriented (anaphase checkpoint) in mammals and insects. In plants this has not yet been established. In heterozygotes of two reciprocal translocations of Secale cereale, with one chromosome replaced by its two telocentric arms, anaphase delay was correlated with the orientation of the kinetochores of the complex of five chromosomes. The terminal kinetochores of the half chromosomes were readily elongated and pole oriented. Chains of five chromosomes with all five kinetochores orienting on alternate poles where the first to start anaphase. Kinetochores of two adjacent chromosomes when oriented on the same pole were partly shielded and less well pole directed. Anaphase was delayed. Cells with this configuration accumulated during anther development. Kinetochores in metacentric chromosomes lacking chiasmata in one arm (in trivalents and bivalents) were slightly better pole oriented and delayed anaphase less. Release of chromatid cohesion as triggered by kinetochore stretch is apparently delayed by inadequate exposition and pole orientation of the kinetochores. It is a mild form of an anaphase checkpoint, in normal material synchronizing bivalent segregation.
First measurement of the 2.4 MeV and 2.9 MeV 6He three-cluster resonant states via the 3H(4He, pα)2n four-body reaction
Authors: Mandaglio Giuseppe , Povoroznyk Orest , Gorpinich Olga K. , Jachmenjov Olexiy O. , Anastasi Antonio , Curciarello Francesca , De Leo Veronica , Mokhnach Hanna V. , Ponkratenko Oleg , Roznyuk Yuri , Fazio Giovanni , Giardina Giorgio
Published: June 2014

Two new low-lying 6 He levels at excitation energies of about 2.4 MeV and 2.9 MeV were observed in the experimental investigation of the p-α coincidence spectra obtained by the 3 H (4 He , p α)2 n four-body reaction at E4 He beam energy of 27.2 MeV. The relevant E* peak energy and Γ energy width spectroscopic parameters for such 6 He * excited states decaying into the α+ n+n channel were obtained by analyzing the bidimensional (E p , Eα) energy spectra. The present new result of two low-lying 6 He * excited states above the 4 He +2 n threshold energy of 0.974 MeV is important for the investigation of the nuclear structure of neutron-rich light nuclei and also as a basic test for theoretical models in the study of the three-cluster resonance feature of 6 He .
Finite temperature Casimir effect for massive scalars in a magnetic field
Authors: Erdas Andrea , Seltzer Kevin P.
Published: June 2014

The finite temperature Casimir effect for a charged, massive scalar field confined between very large, perfectly conducting parallel plates is studied using the zeta function regularization technique. The scalar field satisfies Dirichlet boundary conditions at the plates and a magnetic field perpendicular to the plates is present. Four equivalent expressions for the zeta function are obtained, which are exact to all orders in the magnetic field strength, temperature, scalar field mass and plate distance. The zeta function is used to calculate the Helmholtz free energy of the scalar field and the Casimir pressure on the plates, in the case of high temperature, small plate distance, strong magnetic field and large scalar mass. In all cases, simple analytic expressions of the zeta function, free energy and pressure are obtained, which are very accurate and valid for practically all values of temperature, plate distance, magnetic field and mass.
Fabrication of polymer variable optical attenuator with ultra-low power consumption
Authors: Sun Jian , Wang Xibin , Sun Jingwen , Sun Xiaoqiang , Chen Changming , Wang Fei , Zhang Daming
Published: June 2014

In this paper, a Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI) variable optical attenuator (VOA) based on Norland Optical Adhesive73 (NOA73) material has been designed and fabricated. At 1550 nm wavelength, the insertion loss of the VOA was measured to be about 8.1 dB. The developed VOA exhibited ultra-low power consumption of 1.96 mW and high optical attenuation of -29.3 dB. When the attenuation at 1550 nm wavelength was -24.6 dB, the spectral variation was ±2.5 dB within wavelength range of 1510 nm to 1590 nm. The rise and fall times of the device were 1.7 ms and 1.3 ms, respectively.
Efficient Reliability Analysis of Concurrent Software Applications Considering Software Architecture
Authors: El Kharboutly Rehab , Gokhale Swapna S.
Published: June 2014

Architecture-based reliability analysis of software applications is gaining prominence as it can provide valuable guidance to software architects during early design phases. Concurrent component execution is common among modern software applications, and hence, reliability analysis considering concurrency within the context of software architecture is essential. Our preliminary analysis approach considering concurrency suffers from state-space explosion; due to which it cannot be applied to practical software applications. This paper proposes solutions to the model specification and solution challenges arising from the state-space explosion problem. The specification challenge is alleviated using the Stochastic Reward Net (SRN) modelling paradigm which can intuitively and concisely represent concurrent software architecture at a higher level of abstraction. The computational challenge is alleviated by aggregating the original state space. Our illustrations show that aggregation introduces only a small inaccuracy into the reliability estimate, and hence, preserves the utility of the original model to produce design guidance via sensitivity analysis.
The resurgence properties of the large-order asymptotics of the Hankel and Bessel functions
Authors: Nemes Gergő
Published: June 2014

The aim of this paper is to derive new representations for the Hankel and Bessel functions, exploiting the reformulation of the method of steepest descents by Berry and Howls [Hyperasymptotics for integrals with saddles, Proc. R. Soc. Lond. A 434 (1991) 657–675]. Using these representations, we obtain a number of properties of the large-order asymptotic expansions of the Hankel and Bessel functions due to Debye, including explicit and numerically computable error bounds, asymptotics for the late coefficients, exponentially improved asymptotic expansions, and the smooth transition of the Stokes discontinuities.
Towards Understanding the Perceptions of Information Professionals about Competitive Intelligence Work
Authors: Jin Tao , Ju Boryung
Published: June 2014

Little is known about how information professionals perceive themselves in the competitive intelligence (CI) work domain. There is a dearth of scholarly attention on their social identities in CI, their involvement with CI, and how their engagement impacts the usage of corporate information agency resources by CI practitioners. The goal of this study is to create a benchmark knowledge base addressing these issues. We developed five constructs — awareness of CI functioning in the organisation, perceived identity toward CI, perceived involvement in CI work, frequency of interactivities with CI practitioners, and perceived usage of corporate information agency resources — and attempted to propose and validate a causal model connecting these constructs. Data were collected through a survey of 86 information professionals, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and partial least squares (PLS). Our major findings include: few respondents identified themselves exclusively as CI professionals; the respondents collectively had a low CI-involvement level; perceived identity influenced perceived involvement; and both perceived involvement and frequency of interactivities influenced the usage of corporate information agency resources. These findings could influence the design of future CI programs and the education programs for new information professionals.
Rationalising Business Intelligence Systems and Explicit Knowledge Objects: Improving Evidence-Based Management in Government Programs
Authors: Sapp Carlton E. , Mazzuchi Thomas , Sarkani Shahram
Published: June 2014

Public sector programs often fail to leverage their business intelligence systems and explicit knowledge objects to drive efficiency and effectiveness. Given the current federal fiscal environment and the need for effective government — a catalyst to the requirement to use "evidence and rigorous evaluation in budget, management, and policy decisions" (OMB Memorandum M-12-14) — federal programs look to business intelligence as an evidence-based decision-making practice leading to a more lean government, improving efficiency and effectiveness. However, cost overruns, technical obstacles, and next-generation information challenges stemming from pervasive computing can reduce any perceived value of utilising explicit knowledge systems to support evidence in decision making. Through the evaluation of five diverse projects tasked to address the use of evidence in decision-making practices, this research shows that achieving contextualisation of information requirements, stakeholder alignment, and the complexity/feasibility of information integration are key factors that should be analysed to improve the evidence-based decision-making practice in government programs, and may be accomplished through a systematic approach, such as the rationalisation of business intelligence systems. Thus, a rationalisation framework is provided to facilitate the management of business intelligence systems geared towards a more efficient and effective use of explicit knowledge.
Japan's Bioventures: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Eyo Shiaw Jia
Published: June 2014

This paper reviews the creation and the development of biotechnology start-ups in Japan known as "bioventures". In the early 1990s, the Japanese government began to introduce new policies to promote the development of bioventures. Within the span of a decade, the number of bioventures grew five times. However, majority of them continued to operate at the seed or start-up stage. This paper seeks to explore the underdeveloped state of bioventures in Japan, based on the case study method which includes the use of interviews and reviews of several policies and regulations. This paper also compares the development of Japanese biotechnology industry with the biotechnology industry in the US and Europe. This paper concludes that the lack of a sustainable system of funding is the real issue hindering the development of bioventures in Japan.
INVESTIGATION OF 201 CASES OF CANINE KERATOCONJUNCTIVITIS SICCA IN TAIWAN
Authors: Liu Cheng-Chi , Lin Chen-Si , Chuang Tien-Fu , Lin Chung-Tien
Published: June 2014

This is a retrospective study of data analyses from 201 cases with keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) referred to the National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital, Taiwan. There were 23 breeds in the study, with three most affected breeds, namely Shih-Tzu, Maltese and American cocker spaniel, making up 59.2% of the cases. Among all cases, the mean age at onset of clinical signs was eight years and one month, with no statistical difference between females and males. Clinical signs consisted mainly of corneal pigmentation, mucopurulent discharge and corneal ulceration. In contrast, Shih-Tzu and Malteses showed higher incidence of corneal ulceration. Severe corneal pigmentation occurred in Shih-Tzu. There was no significant difference in mucopurulent discharge in all breeds. The results of this study revealed interbreed differences with respect to sex, age and risks of corneal pigmentation, and corneal ulceration that have not been detailed previously in a referral population in Taiwan.
Podpeč limestone: a heritage stone from Slovenia
Authors: Kramar S. , Bedjanič M. , Mirtič B. , Mladenović A. , Rožič B. , Skaberne D. , Gutman M. , Zupančič N. , Cooper B.
Published: June 2014

Podpeč Limestone is characterized by its dark grey or nearly black colour, contrasting with white fossil shells of the mollusc
Lithiotis
. This formation, which has been dated as Lower Jurassic, occurs in southern and southwestern Slovenia and is particularly conspicuous in areas SW of Ljubljana. The main quarry, which is not active, is located near the village of Podpeč near Ljubljana and has been recognized as a geological site of national importance; as such, it is officially protected as a natural monument. The utilization of Podpeč Limestone was first documented during the Roman period in Slovenia. At the end of the 5th century AD, with the decline of the Roman Empire, stone-cutting ceased at Podpeč for many centuries. Towards the end of the 19th century Podpeč Limestone became better-known. During the first half of the 20th century significant stonecutting workshops were established in Podpeč with most stone being supplied from the main quarry. The internationally renowned Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik (1872–1957) used Podpeč Limestone in various Slovenian buildings, some of national importance. The utilization and national recognition of Podpeč Limestone within Slovenia provide abundant support for its nomination as a Global Heritage Stone Resource.
Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation of the motor cortex induces opposite modulation of reciprocal inhibition in wrist extensor and flexor
Authors: Lackmy-Vallée Alexandra , Klomjai Wanalee , Bussel Bernard , Katz Rose , Roche Nicolas
Published: June 2014

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is used as a noninvasive tool to modulate brain excitability in humans. Recently, several studies have demonstrated that tDCS applied over the motor cortex also modulates spinal neural network excitability and therefore can be used to explore the corticospinal control acting on spinal neurons. Previously, we showed that reciprocal inhibition directed to wrist flexor motoneurons is enhanced during contralateral anodal tDCS, but it is likely that the corticospinal control acting on spinal networks controlling wrist flexors and extensors is not similar. The primary aim of the study was to explore the effects of anodal tDCS on reciprocal inhibition directed to wrist extensor motoneurons. To further examine the supraspinal control acting on the reciprocal inhibition between wrist flexors and extensors, we also explored the effects of the tDCS applied to the ipsilateral hand motor area. In healthy volunteers, we tested the effects induced by sham and anodal tDCS on reciprocal inhibition pathways innervating wrist muscles. Reciprocal inhibition directed from flexor to extensor muscles and the reverse situation, i.e., reciprocal inhibition, directed from extensors to flexors were studied in parallel with the H reflex technique. Our main finding was that contralateral anodal tDCS induces opposing effects on reciprocal inhibition: it decreases reciprocal inhibition directed from flexors to extensors, but it increases reciprocal inhibition directed from extensors to flexors. The functional result of these opposite effects on reciprocal inhibition seems to favor wrist extension excitability, suggesting an asymmetric descending control onto the interneurons that mediate reciprocal inhibition.
One night of partial sleep deprivation affects habituation of hypothalamus and skin conductance responses
Authors: Peters Anja C. , Blechert Jens , Sämann Philipp G. , Eidner Ines , Czisch Michael , Spoormaker Victor I.
Published: June 2014

Sleep disturbances are prevalent in clinical anxiety, but it remains unclear whether they are cause and/or consequence of this condition. Fear conditioning constitutes a valid laboratory model for the acquisition of normal and pathological anxiety. To explore the relationship between disturbed sleep and anxiety in more detail, the present study evaluated the effect of partial sleep deprivation (SD) on fear conditioning in healthy individuals. The neural correlates of 1) nonassociative learning and physiological processing and 2) associative learning (differential fear conditioning) were addressed. Measurements entailed simultaneous functional MRI, EEG, skin conductance response (SCR), and pulse recordings. Regarding nonassociative learning, partial SD resulted in a generalized failure to habituate during fear conditioning, as evidenced by reduced habituation of SCR and hypothalamus responses to all stimuli. Furthermore, SCR and hypothalamus activity were correlated, supporting their functional relationship. Regarding associative learning, effects of partial SD on the acquisition of conditioned fear were weaker and did not reach statistical significance. The hypothalamus plays an integral role in the regulation of sleep and autonomic arousal. Thus sleep disturbances may play a causal role in the development of normal and possibly pathological fear by increasing the susceptibility of the sympathetic nervous system to stressful experiences.
Exact Solutions of Fractional Burgers and Cahn‐Hilliard Equations Using Extended Fractional Riccati Expansion Method
Authors: Li Wei , Yang Huizhang , He Bin
Published: June 2014

Based on a general fractional Riccati equation and with Jumarie’s modified Riemann‐Liouville derivative to an extended fractional Riccati expansion method for solving the time fractional Burgers equation and the space‐time fractional Cahn‐Hilliard equation, the exact solutions expressed by the hyperbolic functions and trigonometric functions are obtained. The obtained results show that the presented method is effective and appropriate for solving nonlinear fractional differential equations.
Energy-Efficient Scheduling for Mobile Sensors Using Connection Graphs in a Hybrid Wireless Sensor Network with Obstacles
Authors: Xie Guangqian , Li Chunguang , Pan Feng
Published: June 2014

This paper considers the scheduling problem of mobile sensors in a hybrid wireless sensor network (WSN) with obstacles. In a WSN, static sensors monitor the environment and report where events appear in the sensing field. Then, mobile sensors are dispatched to these event locations to perform in-depth analysis. The sensing field may contain obstacles of any shape and size. A big challenge is how to efficiently dispatch the mobile sensor to find an obstacle-avoiding shortest path. To remedy this issue, we propose an efficient scheduling mechanism based on connection graphs in this paper. Specifically, the region of network is divided into grid cells with the same size. Consequently, the search space of the shortest path is restricted to the connection graphs composed of some grid cells. Through simulation, we verify the effectiveness of our method. The paper contributes to developing an energy-efficient dispatch solution in the presence of obstacles.
REST-MapReduce: An Integrated Interface but Differentiated Service
Authors: Park Jong-Hyuk , Jeong Hwa-Young , Jeong Young-Sik , Choi Min
Published: June 2014

With the fast deployment of cloud computing, MapReduce architectures are becoming the major technologies for mobile cloud computing. The concept of MapReduce was first introduced as a novel programming model and implementation for a large set of computing devices. In this research, we propose a novel concept of REST-MapReduce, enabling users to use only the REST interface without using the MapReduce architecture. This approach provides a higher level of abstraction by integration of the two types of access interface, REST API and MapReduce. The motivation of this research stems from the slower response time for accessing simple RDBMS on Hadoop than direct access to RDMBS. This is because there is overhead to job scheduling, initiating, starting, tracking, and management during MapReduce-based parallel execution. Therefore, we provide a good performance for REST Open API service and for MapReduce, respectively. This is very useful for constructing REST Open API services on Hadoop hosting services, for example, Amazon AWS (Macdonald, 2005) or IBM Smart Cloud. For evaluating performance of our REST-MapReduce framework, we conducted experiments with Jersey REST web server and Hadoop. Experimental result shows that our approach outperforms conventional approaches.
Groebner Bases Based Verification Solution for SystemVerilog Concurrent Assertions
Authors: Zhou Ning , Gao Xinyan , Wu Jinzhao , Wei Jianchao , Li Dakui
Published: June 2014

We introduce an approach exploiting the power of polynomial ring algebra to perform SystemVerilog assertion verification over digital circuit systems. This method is based on Groebner bases theory and sequential properties checking. We define a constrained subset of SVAs so that an efficient polynomial modeling mechanism for both circuit descriptions and assertions can be applied. We present an algorithm framework based on the algebraic representations using Groebner bases for concurrent SVAs checking. Case studies show that computer algebra can provide canonical symbolic representations for both assertions and circuit designs and can act as a novel solver engine from the viewpoint of symbolic computation.
Distributed Generation Integration in the Electric Grid: Energy Storage System for Frequency Control
Authors: Delfanti Maurizio , Falabretti Davide , Merlo Marco , Monfredini Gabriele
Published: June 2014

During the last few years generation from renewable energy sources (RESs) has grown considerably in European electrical networks. Transmission system operators are greatly concerned about the impact of RESs on the operational security and efficiency of their networks and more in general of the ENTSO-E interconnected system. Grid codes are to be revised in order to harmonise the rules regarding the connection of RES power plants. A main issue concerns frequency control: frequency is greatly affected by RESs intermittency and its deviations must be limited as much as possible in order to guarantee a suitable level of power quality. To improve frequency stability, in the future, Grid codes could extend frequency control requirements also to RES units, whereas today they are applied only to conventional power plants. Energy storage systems can be a possible solution to increase the flexibility and performance of RES power plants: they allow generators to modulate their power injections without wasting renewable energy. In this paper, the authors studied the suitability of extending frequency control to RES units integrating them with energy storage systems. In particular, the paper focuses on the impact of frequency control on the storage lifetime by analysing the power charge/discharge in response to real frequency oscillations.
An Unbiased Two-Parameter Estimation with Prior Information in Linear Regression Model
Authors: Wu Jibo
Published: June 2014

We introduce an unbiased two-parameter estimator based on prior information and two-parameter estimator proposed by Özkale and Kaçıranlar, 2007. Then we discuss its properties and our results show that the new estimator is better than the two-parameter estimator, the ordinary least squares estimator, and explain the almost unbiased two-parameter estimator which is proposed by Wu and Yang, 2013. Finally, we give a simulation study to show the theoretical results.
ECM Inspired Coating of Embroidered 3D Scaffolds Enhances Calvaria Bone Regeneration
Authors: Rentsch C. , Rentsch B. , Heinemann S. , Bernhardt R. , Bischoff B. , Förster Y. , Scharnweber D. , Rammelt S.
Published: June 2014

Resorbable polymeric implants and surface coatings are an emerging technology to treat bone defects and increase bone formation. This approach is of special interest in anatomical regions like the calvaria since adults lose the capacity to heal large calvarial defects. The present study assesses the potential of extracellular matrix inspired, embroidered polycaprolactone-co-lactide (PCL) scaffolds for the treatment of 13 mm full thickness calvarial bone defects in rabbits. Moreover the influence of a collagen/chondroitin sulfate (coll I/cs) coating of PCL scaffolds was evaluated. Defect areas filled with autologous bone and empty defects served as reference. The healing process was monitored over 6 months by combining a novel ultrasonographic method, radiographic imaging, biomechanical testing, and histology. The PCL coll I/cs treated group reached 68% new bone volume compared to the autologous group (100%) and the biomechanical stability of the defect area was similar to that of the gold standard. Histological investigations revealed a significantly more homogenous bone distribution over the whole defect area in the PCL coll I/cs group compared to the noncoated group. The bioactive, coll I/cs coated, highly porous, 3-dimensional PCL scaffold acted as a guide rail for new skull bone formation along and into the implant.
Trehalose-Based Eye Drops Preserve Viability and Functionality of Cultured Human Corneal Epithelial Cells during Desiccation
Authors: Hill-Bator Aneta , Misiuk-Hojło Marta , Marycz Krzysztof , Grzesiak Jakub
Published: June 2014

This paper presents the evaluation of cytoprotective ability of trehalose-based eye drops in comparison with commercially available preparations during the experimental desiccation of cultured human corneal epithelial cells. Cultured human corneal epithelial cells (hCEC) underwent incubation with 7 different, commercially available medicaments used commonly in dry eye syndrome treatment, followed by desiccation trial performed on air under the flow hood for 5, 15, 30, and 45 minutes. Cell viability was quantified by live/dead fluorescent assay, while the presence of apoptotic cells was estimated by immunofluorescent staining for active caspase 3 protein. The preservation of membrane functions was evaluated using neutral red staining, while the preservation of proper morphology and phenotype was determined by fluorescent staining for actin filaments, nuclei, and p63 protein. The trehalose-based eye drops showed the highest efficiency in prevention of cell death from desiccation; moreover, this preparation preserved the normal cellular morphology, functions of cell membrane, and proliferative activity more effectively than other tested medicaments.
High Expression of Polo-Like Kinase 1 Is Associated with Early Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Sun Wei , Su Qi , Cao Xiankui , Shang Bin , Chen Aishan , Yin Hongzhuan , Liu Baolin
Published: June 2014

Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), one of serine/threonine-protein kinase, has been demonstrated to play pivotal roles in malignant transformation. Here we illustrated the clinicopathological significance of PLK1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in more detail. Immunohistochemistry was performed to detect the expression of PLK1 in 67 HCC patients as well as corresponding noncancerous liver tissues. In addition, the correlation of PLK1 expression with clinicopathological factors or prognosis of HCC was analyzed. Results showed that the expression of PLK1 was increased significantly in HCC tissues than that of corresponding normal liver tissues. The correlation between PLK1 and HCC cell differentiation or capsule invasion was also revealed. We found that PLK1 inhibition promoted cell arrest in G2/M phase of cell cycle and cell apoptosis. Our results also indicated that the potential mechanisms of PLK1 inhibition regulating cell growth involved enhancing expression of caspase3, caspase8, and Bax and decreasing expression of Bcl-2. Furthermore, we also found that PLK1 downregulation inducing inhibition of cell growth was associated with enhancing expression of p53. Thus, we presume that the status of PLK1 expression might be an independent prognostic factor for HCC and targeting PLK1 might be a useful strategy for diagnosis and treatment of human HCC.
The Ratio of Estimated Average Glucose to Fasting Plasma Glucose Level Is Superior to Glycated Albumin, Hemoglobin A1c, Fructosamine, and GA/A1c Ratio for Assessingβ-Cell Function in Childhood Diabetes
Authors: Lee Ji Eun , Lee Ji Woo , Fujii Tatsuyoshi , Fujii Noriyoshi , Choi Jong Weon
Published: June 2014

Objective. This study investigated the use of the estimated average glucose to fasting plasma glucose ratio (eAG/fPG ratio) to screen forβ-cell function in pediatric diabetes.Methods. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), glycated albumin (GA), fructosamine, insulin, and C-peptide levels were measured. The ratio of GA to HbA1c (GA/A1c ratio) was calculated, and the homeostasis model assessment ofβ-cell function (HOMA-β) was determined.Results. Median values of C-peptide, insulin, and HOMA-βlevels were significantly higher in patients with an increased eAG/fPG ratio than in those with a decreased eAG/fPG ratio. C-peptide and HOMA-βlevels were more closely correlated with the eAG/fPG ratio than with GA, HbA1c, the GA/A1c ratio, and fructosamine. In contrast, body mass index was significantly associated with GA, GA/A1c ratio, and fructosamine, but not with the eAG/fPG ratio and HbA1c levels. To test the diagnostic accuracies of the eAG/fPG ratio for identifying HOMA-β> 30.0% in patients with type 2 diabetes, the area under the ROC curve of the eAG/fPG ratio was significantly larger than that of the GA/A1c ratio [0.877 (95% CI, 0.780–0.942) versus 0.775 (95% CI, 0.664–0.865),P=0.039].Conclusions. A measurement of the eAG/fPG ratio may provide helpful information for assessingβ-cell function in pediatric patients with diabetes.
A Suite of Tools for Assessing Thematic Map Accuracy
Authors: Mas Jean-François , Pérez-Vega Azucena , Ghilardi Adrián , Martínez Silvia , Loya-Carrillo Jaime Octavio , Vega Ernesto
Published: June 2014

Although land use/cover maps are widely used to support management and environmental policies, only some studies have reported their accuracy using sound and complete assessments. Thematic map accuracy assessment is typically achieved by comparing reference sites labeled with the “ground-truth” category to the ones depicted in the land use/cover map. A variety of sampling designs are used to select these references sites. The estimators for accuracy indices and the variance of these estimators depend on the sampling design. However, the tools used to assess accuracy available in the main program packages compute the accuracy indices without taking into account the sampling and give inconsistent estimates. As an alternative, we present free user-friendly tools that enable users beyond the Geographic Information Science Community to compute accuracy indices and estimate corrected areas of given categories with their respective confidence intervals. The tool runs in Dinamica EGO, a free platform for environmental spatial modeling as well as a Q-GIS plugin and a R package. Additionally, a practical application example is described using a case study area in central-west Mexico.