bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protolichesterinic Acid: A Prominent Broad Spectrum Antimicrobial Compound from the Lichen Usnea albopunctata
Authors: Sasidharan Nishanth Kumar , Sreekala Sreerag Ravikumar , Lakshmanan Rajesh , Jacob Jubi , Saraswathy Amma Dileep Kumar Bhaskaran Nair , Nambisan Bala
Published: August 2014

The aim of this study is to investigate the antimicrobial compounds present in the lichen Usnea albopunctata. Ethyl acetate extract was purified by silica gel column chromatography to obtain a major compound and the chemical structure was characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, DEPT, 1H-1H COSY, HMQC, HMBC, UV, and HR-MS spectroscopic methods as protolichesterinic acid. The antimicrobial activity was estimated by determination of the minimal inhibitory concentration by the broth microdilution method and agar disc diffusion method against thirteen human pathogenic bacterial and four fungal strains. Protolichesterinic acid recorded significant broad spectrum antimicrobial property. The best antibacterial activity was recorded against K. pneumonia (0.25 μg/mL) and V. cholerae (0.5 μg/mL). Significant antifungal activity was recorded against T. rubrum (0.12 μg/mL), which is significantly better than the standard antifungal agent. Protolichesterinic acid is reported for the first time from Usnea albopunctata. Antifungal activity of protolichesterinic acid against medically important fungi is also reported for the first time. Thus the results of the present study suggest that protolichesterinic acid has significant antimicrobial activities and has the strong potential to be developed as an antimicrobial drug after further clinical evaluation.
Mixed Integer Programming-Based Liveness Test for FMS with Full Routing Flexibility
Authors: Dong Lida , Chi Tianyang , Zhu Chengcheng , Yin Jun
Published: August 2014

Mixed integer programming (MIP) is an important technique to verify the liveness property of sequential flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) modeled by Petri nets. When there are some fully flexible routings in FMS, the existing MIP-based methods are not suitable for testing their liveness. This paper defines a subclass of S*PR nets firstly, namely, OSC-S*PR nets, and concludes that an OSC-S*PR net is live if there exist no non-max′-controlled siphons. Accordingly, determining whether or not an OSC-S*PR net is live can also be realized by using standardized mixed integer programming (MIP) tools. Furthermore, the liveness property of S*PR nets can be tested in two steps: first, for a given S*PR net, constructing an OSC-S*PR net to ensure that if the latter is live then the former must be live; second, testing liveness of the constructed OSC-S*PR net by the aforementioned MIP-based algorithm. In the end, the performance of the method is demonstrated by an application of FMS.
Modifications of Control Loop to Improve the Depth Response of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
Authors: Hsu Sheng-Ping , Liu Tzong-Shi
Published: August 2014

During a constant depth maneuver of an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), its pitch attitude and stern plane deflections create forces and moments to achieve equilibrium in the vertical plane. If an AUV has a proportional controller only in its depth control loop, then different weights or centers of gravity will cause different steady‐state depth errors at trimmed conditions. In general, a steady‐state depth error can be eliminated by adding an integral controller in the depth control loop. However, an improper integrator may lead to a bad transient response, even though the steady‐state depth error can finally be eliminated. To remove the steady‐state depth error, this study proposes methods that adjust the depth command and add a switching integral controller in the depth control loop. Simulation results demonstrate that the steady‐state depth error can be eliminated and the transient response can be improved.
Parkia biglobosaImproves Mitochondrial Functioning and Protects against Neurotoxic Agents in Rat Brain Hippocampal Slices
Authors: Komolafe Kayode , Olaleye Tolulope M. , Seeger Rodrigo L. , Carvalho Fabiano B. , Boligon Aline A. , Athayde Margareth L. , Klimaczewski Claudia V. , Akindahunsi Akintunde A. , Rocha Joao B. T.
Published: August 2014

Objective. Methanolic leaf extracts ofParkia biglobosa, PBE, and one of its major polyphenolic constituents, catechin, were investigated for their protective effects against neurotoxicity induced by different agents on rat brain hippocampal slices and isolated mitochondria.Methods. Hippocampal slices were preincubated with PBE (25, 50, 100, or 200 µg/mL) or catechin (1, 5, or 10 µg/mL) for 30 min followed by further incubation with 300 µM H2O2, 300 µM SNP, or 200 µM PbCl2for 1 h. Effects of PBE and catechin on SNP- or CaCl2-induced brain mitochondrial ROS formation and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) were also determined.Results. PBE and catechin decreased basal ROS generation in slices and blunted the prooxidant effects of neurotoxicants on membrane lipid peroxidation and nonprotein thiol contents. PBE rescued hippocampal cellular viability from SNP damage and caused a significant boost in hippocampus Na+, K+-ATPase activity but with no effect on the acetylcholinesterase activity. Both PBE and catechin also mitigated SNP- or CaCl2-dependent mitochondrial ROS generation. Measurement by safranine fluorescence however showed that the mild depolarization of theΔΨmby PBE was independent of catechin.Conclusion. The results suggest that the neuroprotective effect of PBE is dependent on its constituent antioxidants and mild mitochondrial depolarization propensity.
Carbonation Characteristics of Alkali-Activated Blast-Furnace Slag Mortar
Authors: Song Keum-Il , Song Jin-Kyu , Lee Bang Yeon , Yang Keun-Hyeok
Published: August 2014

Alkali-activated ground granulated blast-slag (AAS) is the most obvious alternative material for ordinary Portland cement (OPC). However, to use it as a structural material requires the assessment and verification of its durability. The most important factor for a durability evaluation is the degree of carbonation resistance, and AAS is known to show lower performance than OPC. A series of experiments was conducted with a view to investigate the carbonation characteristics of AAS binder. As a consequence, it was found that the major hydration product of AAS was calcium silicate hydrate (CSH), with almost no portlandite, unlike the products of OPC. After carbonation, the CSH of AAS turned into amorphous silica gel which was most likely why the compressive strength of AAS became weaker after carbonation. An increase of the activator dosage leads AAS to react more quickly and produce more CSH, increasing the compaction, compressive strength, and carbonation resistance of the microstructure.
A Foreign Body in the Cervix after Spontaneous Abortion: A Rare Case of a Traumatic Fetal Decapitation
Authors: Holland Danielle , Sheele Johnathan
Published: August 2014

Although incomplete spontaneous abortions are common in early pregnancy, fetal decapitation does not specifically appear in the medical literature as a known complication of spontaneous abortion. We present a rare and unusual case of an incomplete spontaneous abortion occurring at home with the mother presenting to the emergency department (ED) with a decapitated fetus and a retained fetal head in the cervical os.
Numerical Solution of Nonlinear Sine-Gordon Equation by Modified Cubic B-Spline Collocation Method
Authors: Mittal R. C. , Bhatia Rachna
Published: August 2014

Modified cubic B-spline collocation method is discussed for the numerical solution of one-dimensional nonlinear sine-Gordon equation. The method is based on collocation of modified cubic B-splines over finite elements, so we have continuity of the dependent variable and its first two derivatives throughout the solution range. The given equation is decomposed into a system of equations and modified cubic B-spline basis functions have been used for spatial variable and its derivatives, which gives results in amenable system of ordinary differential equations. The resulting system of equation has subsequently been solved by SSP-RK54 scheme. The efficacy of the proposed approach has been confirmed with numerical experiments, which shows that the results obtained are acceptable and are in good agreement with earlier studies.
Miliary Osteoma Cutis: A Case Report
Authors: Aguinaga Felipe , Trope Beatriz , Piñeiro-Maceira Juan , Ramos-e-Silva Marcia
Published: August 2014

The authors present a rare case of osteoma cutis miliaris and briefly update the current knowledge about its clinic, pathogenesis, and therapeutic options.
Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitors as a Third-Line Oral Antihyperglycaemic Agent in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: The Impact of Ethnicity
Authors: Zhang X. , Brooks B. , Molyneaux L. , Landy E. , Banatwalla R. , Wu T. , Wong J. , Su B. , Yue D. K.
Published: August 2014

Aims. The aim of this study is to examine the efficacy of adding a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor to patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled by metformin and sulphonylurea combination treatment. The response of Asian and non-Asian patients to this regimen was also examined.Methods. The medical and computerized records of 80 patients were examined. These patients had baseline HbA1c levels ranging from 7.0 to 12.5% and had a DPP-4 inhibitor add-on therapy for a minimum period of 12 weeks. The primary endpoint was the change in HbA1c level before and after DPP-4 inhibitor treatment.Results. During oral triple therapy, there was a reduction of HbA1c from 8.3% (7.7–8.9) to 7.2% (6.8–7.6) and 26 patients (32.5%) achieved an HbA1c <7%. Poor baseline glycaemic control, lower BMI, and younger age were associated with a better response, but duration of diabetes and gender did not affect outcome. The HbA1c reduction was not different between Asians and non-Asians group [−1.00% (0.6–1.3) vs −0.90% (0.4–1.6)].Conclusions. DPP-4 inhibitor as a third-line add-on therapy can achieve significant glycaemic improvement in patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on the combination of metformin and sulphonylurea. The improvement in HbA1c was similar between Asian and non-Asian patients.
The Association of Toll-Like Receptor 4 Polymorphism with Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Saudi Arabian Patients
Authors: Al-Qahtani Ahmed A. , Al-Anazi Mashael R. , Al-Zoghaibi Fahad , Abdo Ayman A. , Sanai Faisal M. , Khan Mohammed Q. , Albenmousa Ali , Al-Ashgar Hamad I. , Al-Ahdal Mohammed N.
Published: August 2014

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a single stranded RNA virus. It affects millions of people worldwide and is considered as a leading cause of liver diseases including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. A recent study reported that TLR4 gene polymorphisms are good prognostic predictors and are associated with protection from liver fibrosis among Caucasians. This study aims to investigate the implication of genetic polymorphisms of TLR4 gene on the HCV infection in Saudi Arabian patients. Two SNPs in the TLR4 gene, rs4986790 (A/G) and rs4986791 (C/T), were genotyped in 450 HCV patients and 600 uninfected controls. The association analysis confirmed that both SNPs showed a significant difference in their distribution between HCV-infected patients and uninfected control subjects (P<0.0001;OR=0.404, 95%CI=0.281–0.581) and (P<0.0001;OR=0.298, 95%CI=0.201–0.443), respectively. More importantly, haplotype analysis revealed that four haplotypes, AC, GT, GC, and AT (rs4986790, rs4986791), were significantly associated with HCV infection when compared with control subjects. One haplotype AC was more prominently found when chronic HCV-infected patients were compared with cirrhosis/HCC patients (frequency = 94.7% andP=0.04). Both TLR4 SNPs under investigation were found to be significantly implicated with HCV-infection among Saudi Arabian population.
Effects of Unilateral Nephrectomy on Renal Function in Male Spontaneously Diabetic Torii Fatty Rats: A Novel Obese Type 2 Diabetic Model
Authors: Katsuda Yoshiaki , Kemmochi Yusuke , Maki Mimi , Sano Ryuhei , Toriniwa Yasufumi , Ishii Yukihito , Miyajima Katsuhiro , Kakimoto Kochi , Ohta Takeshi
Published: August 2014

The Spontaneously Diabetic Torii (SDT) fatty rat is a new model for obese type 2 diabetes. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of 1/2 nephrectomy (Nx) on renal function and morphology and on blood pressure in SDT fatty rats. Male SDT fatty rats underwent 1/2 Nx or a sham operation (Sham). Subsequently, animals were studied with respect to renal function and histological alterations. Induction of 1/2 Nx in SDT fatty rats led to functional and morphological damage to the remnant kidney and to hypertension, which are considered main characteristics of chronic kidney disease, at a younger age compared with the sham group. In conclusion, the SDT fatty rat is useful in investigations to elucidate the pathogenesis of human diabetic nephropathy and in new drug discovery.
Congestion Control for a Fair Packet Delivery in WSN: From a Complex System Perspective
Authors: Aguirre-Guerrero Daniela , Marcelín-Jiménez Ricardo , Rodriguez-Colina Enrique , Pascoe-Chalke Michael
Published: August 2014

In this work, we propose that packets travelling across a wireless sensor network (WSN) can be seen as the active agents that make up a complex system, just like a bird flock or a fish school, for instance. From this perspective, the tools and models that have been developed to study this kind of systems have been applied. This is in order to create a distributed congestion control based on a set of simple rules programmed at the nodes of the WSN. Our results show that it is possible to adapt the carried traffic to the network capacity, even under stressing conditions. Also, the network performance shows a smooth degradation when the traffic goes beyond a threshold which is settled by the proposed self-organized control. In contrast, without any control, the network collapses before this threshold. The use of the proposed solution provides an effective strategy to address some of the common problems found in WSN deployment by providing a fair packet delivery. In addition, the network congestion is mitigated using adaptive traffic mechanisms based on a satisfaction parameter assessed by each packet which has impact on the global satisfaction of the traffic carried by the WSN.
Adiponectin Ameliorates Endotoxin-Induced Acute Cardiac Injury
Authors: Watanabe Yoshio , Shibata Rei , Ouchi Noriyuki , Kambara Takahiro , Ohashi Koji , Jie Li , Inoue Yoko , Murohara Toyoaki , Komori Kimihiro
Published: August 2014

Background. Obesity is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Increasing evidence suggests that reduced levels of the adipocyte-derived plasma protein adiponectin are associated with an increased cardiovascular risk. Here, we examined the effects of adiponectin on lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced acute cardiac injuryin vivo.Methods and Results. A single dose of LPS (10 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected into wild-type (WT) and adiponectin-knockout (APN-KO) mice. Following LPS administration, APN-KO mice had exacerbation of left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction compared with WT mice. Administration of LPS to WT and APN-KO mice led to an increased expression of inflammatory cytokines including TNF-αand IL-6 in the heart, but the magnitude of this induction was greater in APN-KO mice compared to WT mice. Systemic delivery of an adenoviral vector expressing adiponectin (Ad-APN) improved LPS-induced LV dysfunction in APN-KO mice, and this effect was accompanied by the reduced expression of TNF-αand IL-6 in the heart. Administration of etanercept, a soluble TNF receptor abolished the reduced LV contractile function in response to LPS in APN-KO mice.Conclusion. These results suggest that adiponectin protects against LPS-induced acute cardiac injury by suppressing cardiac inflammatory responses, and could represent a potential therapeutic target in sepsis-associated myocardial dysfunction.
Parasitic Contamination of Fruits and Vegetables Collected from Selected Local Markets of Jimma Town, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Tefera Tamirat , Biruksew Abdissa , Mekonnen Zeleke , Eshetu Teferi
Published: August 2014

Background. A study aimed at determining the prevalence and predictors of parasitic contamination of fruits and vegetables collected from local markets in Jimma Town, Ethiopia, was conducted between April and May 2013. Methods. A total of 360 samples of fruits and vegetables were examined by sedimentation concentration after washing using normal saline. Results. The overall prevalence of parasitic contamination was 57.8%. Strongyloides like parasite (21.9%) was the most frequent parasitic contaminant followed by Toxocara Spp (14.7%), Cryptosporidium Spp (12.8%), H. nana (8.3%), G. lamblia (7.5%), A. lumbricoides (6.7%), E. histolytica/dispar (5.3%), Cyclospora spp (5.0%), and H. diminuta (1.4%). Washing of the fruits and vegetables before display for selling was significantly associated with decreased parasitic contamination (P<0.001). Conclusion. Since fruits and vegetables are potential sources of transmission for intestinal parasites in the study area, consumers should always avoid acquiring parasitic infection from contaminated fruits and vegetables supplied in Jimma Town through proper cleaning and cooking.
Performance Analysis of a Shunt Compensator Controlled Using Modified Synchronous Reference Theory
Authors: Singh Alka
Published: August 2014

This paper deals with the control of distribution energy resource (DER) connected to a grid connected system feeding nonlinear loads. The DER is controlled to provide power quality improvement capabilities, namely, power factor correction, harmonic reduction, and load balancing. The developed controller is based on modification of synchronous reference theory. It possesses unique features such as filtration and fundamental voltage extraction from the polluted grid voltages to eliminate harmonics and unbalance. Additionally, the control is implemented over the square of DC link voltage. The distributed generation source is realized as a voltage source converter. Both simulation and experimental results prove the effectiveness of control algorithm with nonlinear loads. The control algorithm works well for power factor correction, harmonic reduction, and operation under unbalanced load condition. The dynamics of the system under load change and load unbalancing are well depicted.
Remote Effects of Lower Limb Ischemia-Reperfusion: Impaired Lung, Unchanged Liver, and Stimulated Kidney Oxidative Capacities
Authors: Mansour Z. , Charles A. L. , Kindo M. , Pottecher J. , Chamaraux-Tran T. N. , Lejay A. , Zoll J. , Mazzucotelli J. P. , Geny B.
Published: August 2014

Remote organ impairments are frequent and increase patient morbidity and mortality after lower limb ischemia-reperfusion (IR). We challenged the hypothesis that lower limb IR might also impair lung, renal, and liver mitochondrial respiration. Two-hour tourniquet-induced ischemia was performed on both hindlimbs, followed by a two-hour reperfusion period in C57BL6 mice. Lungs, liver and kidneys maximal mitochondrial respiration (Vmax⁡), complexes II, III, and IV activity (Vsucc), and complex IV activity (VTMPD) were analyzed on isolated mitochondria. Lower limb IR decreased significantly lungVmax⁡(29.4±3.3versus24±3.7 μmol O2/min/g dry weight, resp.;P=0.042) and tended to reduceVsuccandVTMPD. IR did not modify liver but increased kidneys mitochondrial respiration (79.5±19.9versus108.6±21.4,P=0.035, and126±13.4versus142.4±10.4 μmol O2/min/g dry weight forVmax⁡andVsucc, resp.). Kidneys mitochondrial coupling was increased after IR (6.5±1.3versus8.8±1.1,P=0.008). There were no histological changes in liver and kidneys. Thus, lung mitochondrial dysfunction appears as a new early marker of hindlimb IR injuries in mice. Further studies will be useful to determine whether enhanced kidneys mitochondrial function allows postponing kidney impairment in lower limb IR setting.
Design of Jetty Piles Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Lee Yongjei , Lee Sungchil , Bae Hun-Kyun
Published: August 2014

To overcome the complication of jetty pile design process, artificial neural networks (ANN) are adopted. To generate the training samples for training ANN, finite element (FE) analysis was performed 50 times for 50 different design cases. The trained ANN was verified with another FE analysis case and then used as a structural analyzer. The multilayer neural network (MBPNN) with two hidden layers was used for ANN. The framework of MBPNN was defined as the input with the lateral forces on the jetty structure and the type of piles and the output with the stress ratio of the piles. The results from the MBPNN agree well with those from FE analysis. Particularly for more complex modes with hundreds of different design cases, the MBPNN would possibly substitute parametric studies with FE analysis saving design time and cost.
Evaluation and Integration of Genetic Signature for Prediction Risk of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma in Southern China
Authors: Guo Xiuchan , Winkler Cheryl A. , Li Ji , Guan Li , Tang Minzhong , Liao Jian , Deng Hong , de Thé Guy , Zeng Yi , O’Brien Stephen J.
Published: August 2014

Genetic factors, as well as environmental factors, play a role in development of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). A number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been reported to be associated with NPC. To confirm these genetic associations with NPC, two independent case-control studies from Southern China comprising 1166 NPC cases and 2340 controls were conducted. Seven SNPs inITGA9at 3p21.3 and 9 SNPs within the 6p21.3HLAregion were genotyped. To explore the potential clinical application of these genetic markers in NPC, we further evaluate the predictive/diagnostic role of significant SNPs by calculating the area under the curve (AUC).Results.The reported associations betweenITGA9variants and NPC were not replicated. Multiple loci ofGABBR1,HLA-F,HLA-A, andHCG9were statistically significant in both cohorts (Pcombinedrange from 5.96 × 10−17to 0.02). We show for the first time that these factors influence NPC development independent of environmental risk factors. This study also indicated that the SNP alone cannot serve as a predictive/diagnostic marker for NPC. Integrating the most significant SNP with IgA antibodies status to EBV, which is presently used as screening/diagnostic marker for NPC in Chinese populations, did not improve the AUC estimate for diagnosis of NPC.
Novel Approach for Coexpression Analysis of E2F1–3 and MYC Target Genes in Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia
Authors: Wang Fengfeng , Chan Lawrence W. C. , Cho William C. S. , Tang Petrus , Yu Jun , Shyu Chi-Ren , Tsui Nancy B. Y. , Wong S. C. Cesar , Siu Parco M. , Yip S. P. , Yung Benjamin Y. M.
Published: August 2014

Background. Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is characterized by tremendous amount of immature myeloid cells in the blood circulation. E2F1–3 and MYC are important transcription factors that form positive feedback loops by reciprocal regulation in their own transcription processes. Since genes regulated by E2F1–3 or MYC are related to cell proliferation and apoptosis, we wonder if there exists difference in the coexpression patterns of genes regulated concurrently by E2F1–3 and MYC between the normal and the CML states.Results. We proposed a method to explore the difference in the coexpression patterns of those candidate target genes between the normal and the CML groups. A disease-specific cutoff point for coexpression levels that classified the coexpressed gene pairs into strong and weak coexpression classes was identified. Our developed method effectively identified the coexpression pattern differences from the overall structure. Moreover, we found that genes related to the cell adhesion and angiogenesis properties were more likely to be coexpressed in the normal group when compared to the CML group.Conclusion. Our findings may be helpful in exploring the underlying mechanisms of CML and provide useful information in cancer treatment.
The Effects of Sesquiterpenes-Rich Extract ofAlpinia oxyphyllaMiq. on Amyloid-β-Induced Cognitive Impairment and Neuronal Abnormalities in the Cortex and Hippocampus of Mice
Authors: Shi Shao-Huai , Zhao Xu , Liu Bing , Li Huan , Liu Ai-Jing , Wu Bo , Bi Kai-Shun , Jia Ying
Published: August 2014

As a kind of medicine which can also be used as food,Alpinia oxyphyllaMiq. has a long clinical history in China. A variety of studies demonstrated the significant neuroprotective activity effects of chloroform (CF) extract from the fruits ofAlpinia oxyphylla.In order to further elucidate the possible mechanisms of CF extract which mainly contains sesquiterpenes with neuroprotection on the cognitive ability, mice were injected with Aβ1−42and later with CF in this study. The results showed that the long-term treatment of CF enhanced the cognitive performances in behavior tests, increased activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px) and decreased the level of malondialdehyde (MDA), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and amyloid-β(Aβ), and reversed the activation of microglia, degeneration of neuronal acidophilia, and nuclear condensation in the cortex and hippocampus. These results demonstrate that CF ameliorates learning and memory deficits by attenuating oxidative stress and regulating the activation of microglia and degeneration of neuronal acidophilia to reinforce cholinergic functions.
Hura crepitans Seed Oil: An Alternative Feedstock for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Adewuyi Adewale , Awolade Paul O. , Oderinde Rotimi Ayodele
Published: August 2014

Oil was extracted from the seed of Hura crepitans using hexane in a soxhlet extractor and analyzed for iodine value, saponification value and free fatty acid content. The dominant fatty acid in the oil was C18:2 (52.8±0.10%) while the iodine value was 120.10±0.70 g iodine/100 g. Biodiesel was produced from the oil using a two-step reaction system involving a first step of pretreatment via esterification reaction and a second step via transesterification reaction. The pretreatment step showed that free fatty acid in Hura crepitans seed oil can be reduced in a one-step pretreatment of esterification using H2SO4 as catalyst. The biodiesel produced from Hura crepitans seed oil had an acid value of 0.21±0.00 mg KOH/g, flash point of 152 ± 1.10°C, copper strip corrosion value of 1A, calorific value of 39.10±0.30 mJ/kg, cetane number of 45.62±0.30, and density of 0.86±0.02 g cm−3. The process gave a biodiesel yield of 98.70±0.40% with properties within the recommended values of EN 14214.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Leaves and Roots in Response to Sudden Increase in Salinity inBrassica napusby RNA-seq
Authors: Yong Hui-Yee , Zou Zhongwei , Kok Eng-Piew , Kwan Bih-Hua , Chow Kingsley , Nasu Shiori , Nanzyo Masami , Kitashiba Hiroyasu , Nishio Takeshi
Published: August 2014

Amphidiploid species in the Brassicaceae family, such asBrassica napus, are more tolerant to environmental stress than their diploid ancestors.　A relatively salt tolerantB. napusline, N119, identified in our previous study, was used. N119 maintained lower Na+content, and Na+/K+and Na+/Ca2+ratios in the leaves than a susceptible line. The transcriptome profiles of both the leaves and the roots 1 h and 12 h after stress were investigated.De novoassembly of individual transcriptome followed by sequence clustering yielded 161,537 nonredundant sequences. A total of 14,719 transcripts were differentially expressed in either organs at either time points. GO and KO enrichment analyses indicated that the same 49 GO terms and seven KO terms were, respectively, overrepresented in upregulated transcripts in both organs at 1 h after stress. Certain overrepresented GO term of genes upregulated at 1 h after stress in the leaves became overrepresented in genes downregulated at 12 h. A total of 582 transcription factors and 438 transporter genes were differentially regulated in both organs in response to salt shock. The transcriptome depicting gene network in the leaves and the roots regulated by salt shock provides valuable information on salt resistance genes for future application to crop improvement.
Model-Driven Development of Automation and Control Applications: Modeling and Simulation of Control Sequences
Authors: Vepsäläinen Timo , Kuikka Seppo
Published: August 2014

The scope and responsibilities of control applications are increasing due to, for example, the emergence of industrial internet. To meet the challenge, model-driven development techniques have been in active research in the application domain. Simulations that have been traditionally used in the domain, however, have not yet been sufficiently integrated to model-driven control application development. In this paper, a model-driven development process that includes support for design-time simulations is complemented with support for simulating sequential control functions. The approach is implemented with open source tools and demonstrated by creating and simulating a control system model in closed-loop with a large and complex model of a paper industry process.
Healthcare Resource Use and Expenditures among Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients Treated with HER2-Targeted Agents
Authors: Meyer Nicole , Hao Yanni , Song Xue , Shi Nianwen , Johnson William , Willemann Rogerio Jaqueline , Yardley Denise A.
Published: August 2014

Objective. To compare healthcare utilization (HCU) and costs of women newly diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer (mBC) by receipt of HER2-targeted agents (H2T) and among H2T subgroups.Methods. Adult women newly diagnosed with mBC (index date) during 2008–2012 were followed until enrollment end or inpatient death. Study cohorts were antineoplastic ± H2Ts, and no treatment; and subgroups of H2T patients stratified by receipt of hormonal therapy (HT+/HT−), byde novoversus recurrent disease status, and by age group. All-cause (ALL) and breast cancer related (BCR) HCU and costs (in 2012 dollars) were estimated using a generalized linear model.Results. Of 18,059 women, 14.6% were H2T users 71.1% nonusers, and 14.3% untreated. No treatment patients had the highest ALL and BCR inpatient HCU, and ALL emergency room HCU. H2Ts users had the highest ALL and BCR office visits, lab and diagnostic radiology, radiation treatments, other outpatient services, and prescription antineoplastics. Adjusted ALL and BCR costs were the highest for H2T users and, in H2T subgroups, higher for HT—versus HT+ andde novoversus recurrent, and declined with older age.Conclusions. Receipt of H2Ts was associated with greater levels of ALL and BCR HCU and costs. H2T subgroups ofHT-,de novo, and younger age had higher HCU and costs, possibly indicating more aggressive treatments.
A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase 9 Is Involved in Ectodomain Shedding of Receptor-Binding Cancer Antigen Expressed on SiSo Cells
Authors: Sonoda Kenzo , Kato Kiyoko
Published: August 2014

In several human malignancies, the expression of receptor-binding cancer antigen expressed on SiSo cells (RCAS1) is associated with aggressive characteristics and poor overall survival. RCAS1 alters the tumor microenvironment by inducing peripheral lymphocyte apoptosis and angiogenesis, while reducing the vimentin-positive cell population. Although proteolytic processing, referred to as “ectodomain shedding,” is pivotal for induction of apoptosis by RCAS1, the proteases involved in RCAS1-dependent shedding remain unclear. Here we investigated proteases involved in RCAS1 shedding and the association between tumor protease expression and serum RCAS1 concentration in uterine cancer patients. A disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) 9 was shown to be involved in the ectodomain shedding of RCAS1. Given the significant correlation between tumor ADAM9 expression and serum RCAS1 concentration in both cervical and endometrial cancer as well as the role for ADAM9 in RCAS1 shedding, further exploration of the regulatory mechanisms by which ADAM9 converts membrane-anchored RCAS1 into its soluble form should aid the development of novel RCAS1-targeting therapeutic strategies to treat human malignancies.
Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells with Thin Silicon Passivation Film Deposited prior to Phosphorous Diffusion
Authors: Li Ching-Tao , Hsieh Fangchi , Yan Shi , Wan Cuifeng , Liu Yakun , Chen Jing , Wang Likarn
Published: August 2014

We demonstrate the performance improvement of p-type single-crystalline silicon (sc-Si) solar cells resulting from front surface passivation by a thin amorphous silicon (a-Si) film deposited prior to phosphorus diffusion. The conversion efficiency was improved for the sample with an a-Si film of ~5 nm thickness deposited on the front surface prior to high-temperature phosphorus diffusion, with respect to the samples with an a-Si film deposited on the front surface after phosphorus diffusion. The improvement in conversion efficiency is 0.4% absolute with respect to a-Si film passivated cells, that is, the cells with an a-Si film deposited on the front surface after phosphorus diffusion. The new technique provided a 0.5% improvement in conversion efficiency compared to the cells without a-Si passivation. Such performance improvements result from reduced surface recombination as well as lowered contact resistance, the latter of which induces a high fill factor of the solar cell.
Synthesis, Characterization, andIn VitroAnticancer Evaluation of Novel 2,5-Disubstituted 1,3,4-Oxadiazole Analogue
Authors: Salahuddin  , Mazumder Avijit , Shaharyar Mohammad
Published: August 2014

In this series, we have synthesised a new 2,5-disubstituted 1,3,4-oxadiazole in search of potential therapeutics for cancer. The anticancer activities were evaluated on a panel of 60 cell lines by the National Cancer Institute according to its own screening protocol. Out of the 24 compounds, 11 were selected and evaluated via single high dose (10−5 M). In the next phase, two compounds have been selected for five-dose assay. The compounds 3-(5-benzyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)quinolin-2(1H)-one18(NSC-776965) and 3-[5-(2-phenoxymethyl-benzoimidazol-1-ylmethyl)-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-2-yl]-2-p-tolyloxy-quinoline27(NSC-776971) showed mean growth percentage of 66.23 and 46.61, respectively, in one-dose assay and their GI50values ranging between 1.41–15.8 μM and 0.40–14.9 μM, respectively, in 5-dose assay.
Extended Renal Outcomes with Use of Iodixanol versus Iohexol after Coronary Angiography
Authors: Chua Horng-Ruey , Horrigan Mark , Mcintosh Elizabeth , Bellomo Rinaldo
Published: August 2014

The impact of isoosmolar versus low-osmolar contrast media (CM) administration on contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) and extended renal dysfunction (ERD) is unclear. We retrospectively examined incidences of CI-AKI and ERD in patients who received iodixanol (isoosmolar) versus iohexol (low-osmolar) during angiography for cardiac indications. Of 713 patients, 560 (cohort A), 190 (cohort B), and 172 (cohort C) had serum creatinine monitored at 3 days, 30 days, and 6 months after angiography, respectively. 18% of cohort A developed CI-AKI, which was more common with iodixanol than iohexol (22% versus 13%,P=0.006). However, patients given iodixanol were older with lower baseline estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR). On multivariate analysis, independent associations with higher CI-AKI risk include age >65 years, female gender, cardiac failure, ST-elevation myocardial infarction, intra-aortic balloon pump, and critical illness, but not CM type, higher CM load, oreGFR<45 mL/min/1.73 m2. 32% of cohort B and 34% of cohort C had ERD at 30 days and 6 months, while 44% and 41% of subcohorts had ERD at 90 days and 1 year, respectively. CI-AKI, but not CM type, was associated with medium- and longer-term ERD, with 3-fold higher risk. Advanced age, emergent cardiac conditions, and critical illness are stronger predictors of CI-AKI, compared with CM-related factors. CI-AKI predicts longer-term ERD.
Mutton Traceability Method Based on Internet of Things
Authors: Min-Ning Wu , Li Zhang-Xing , Yong-Heng Zhang , Feng Zhang
Published: August 2014

In order to improve the mutton traceability efficiency for Internet of Things and solve the problem of data transmission, analyzed existing tracking algorithm, proposed the food traceability application model, Petri network model of food traceability and food traceability of time series data of improved K-means algorithm based on the Internet of things. The food traceability application model to convert, integrate and mine the heterogeneous information, implementation of the food safety traceability information management, Petri network model for food traceability in the process of the state transition were analyzed and simulated and provides a theoretical basis to study the behavior described in the food traceability system and structural design. The experiments on simulation data show that the proposed traceability method based on Internet of Things is more effective for mutton traceability data than the traditional K-means methods.
A Framework for Designing Training Programs to Foster Self-Regulated Learning and Text Analysis Skills
Authors: Wagner Daniela , Dörrenbächer Sandra , Perels Franziska
Published: August 2014

The study’s aim was to develop an intervention program and to evaluate its contribution to students’ self-regulated learning (SRL) and text analysis skills. In a student-focused training approach, the students themselves acquired the training strategies, whereas in the teacher-focused training, the teachers were enabled to explicitly impart these strategies to their students. In order to investigate the effectiveness of the intervention in terms of transfer benefits on SRL and text analysis skills, 274 lower secondary students were examined in a pretest-training-posttest design. Based on two different training approaches, a distinction was made between four groups: student training (singleST), teacher training (singleTT), combination of student and teacher training (ComT), and control group (CG). Substantially more transfer was revealed in all training conditions as compared to the control group. Specifically, the singleST group showed the highest learning gains for all variables. Conversely, a combination of both approaches (ComT) did not result in synergetic effects, but rather in reciprocal interferences.
Research on a New Control Scheme of Photovoltaic Grid Power Generation System
Authors: Li Dong-Hui , Wang Yi-Lin , Zhou Da-jun
Published: August 2014

A new type of photovoltaic grid power generation system control scheme to solve the problems of the conventional photovoltaic grid power generation systems is presented. To aim at the oscillation and misjudgment of traditional perturbation observation method, an improved perturbation observation method comparing to the next moment power is proposed, combining with BOOST step-up circuit to realize the maximum power tracking. To counter the harmonic pollution problem in photovoltaic grid power generation system, the deadbeat control scheme in fundamental wave synchronous frequency rotating coordinate system of power grid is presented. A parameter optimization scheme based on positive feedback of active frequency shift island detection to solve the problems like the nondetection zone due to the import of disturbance in traditional island detection method is proposed. Finally, the results in simulation environment by MATLAB/Simulink simulation and experiment environment verify the validity and superiority of the proposed scheme.
Nomogram Predicting Renal Insufficiency after Nephroureterectomy for Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma in the Chinese Population: Exclusion of Ineligible Candidates for Adjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Fang Dong , Zhang Qifu , Li Xuesong , Qian Cheng , Xiong Gengyan , Zhang Lei , Chen Xiaopeng , Zhang Xiaoyu , Yu Wei , He Zhisong , Zhou Liqun
Published: August 2014

Objectives.To report the decline of renal function after radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) in upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) patients and to develop a nomogram to predict ineligibility for cisplatin-based adjuvant chemotherapy (AC).Methods.We retrospectively analyzed 606 consecutive Chinese UTUC patients treated by RNU from 2000 to 2010. We chose an eGFR of 60 and 45 ml/min/1.73 m2as cut-offs for full-dose and reduced-dose AC eligibility.Results.Median eGFR for all patients before and after surgery was 64 and 49 ml/min/1.73 m2(P<0.001). The proportion of patients ineligible to receive full-dose and reduced-dose AC changed from 42% to 74% and from 20% to 38.1%. Older age (OR = 1.007), preoperative eGFR (OR = 0.993), absence of hydronephrosis (OR = 0.801), smaller tumor size (OR = 0.962), and tumor without multifocality (OR = 0.876) were predictive for ineligibility for full-dose AC. Preoperative eGFR (OR = 0.991), absence of hydronephrosis (OR = 0.881), tumor located in renal pelvis (OR = 1.164), and smaller tumor size (OR = 0.969) could predict ineligibility for reduced-dose AC. The c-index of the two models was 0.757 and 0.836. Postoperative renal function was not associated with worse survival.Conclusions.Older age, lower preoperative eGFR, smaller tumor size, tumor located in renal pelvis, and absence of hydronephrosis or multifocality were predictors of postoperative renal insufficiency.
Visceral Leishmaniasis in a UK Toddler following a Short Trip to a Popular Holiday Destination in Spain
Authors: Minakaran Neda , Soorma Talha , Ladhani Shamez N.
Published: August 2014

We herein present the case of a 15-month-old with visceral leishmaniasis diagnosed in the UK following a short trip to a popular holiday destination in Spain. Four months after the initial symptoms, the diagnosis was made incidentally on microscopy of a bone marrow biopsy taken for suspected haematological malignancy after the child developed hepatosplenomegaly, pancytopaenia, andKlebsiella pneumoniaesepticaemia.
Reconsideration at Field Scale of the Relationship between Hydraulic Conductivity and Porosity: The Case of a Sandy Aquifer in South Italy
Authors: Fallico Carmine
Published: August 2014

To describe flow or transport phenomena in porous media, relations between aquifer hydraulic conductivity and effective porosity can prove useful, avoiding the need to perform expensive and time consuming measurements. The practical applications generally require the determination of this parameter at field scale, while most of the empirical and semiempirical formulas, based on grain size analysis and allowing determination of the hydraulic conductivity from the porosity, are related to the laboratory scale and thus are not representative of the aquifer volumes to which one refers. Therefore, following the grain size distribution methodology, a new experimental relation between hydraulic conductivity and effective porosity, representative of aquifer volumes at field scale, is given for a confined aquifer. The experimental values used to determine this law were obtained for both parameters using only field measurements methods. The experimental results found, also if in the strict sense valid only for the investigated aquifer, can give useful suggestions for other alluvial aquifers with analogous characteristics of grain-size distribution. Limited to the investigated range, a useful comparison with the best known empirical formulas based on grain size analysis was carried out. The experimental data allowed also investigation of the existence of a scaling behaviour for both parameters considered.
Multiple Sclerosis and Oligodendroglioma: An Exceptional Association
Authors: Carvalho Ana Teresa , Linhares Paulo , Castro Lígia , Sá Maria José
Published: August 2014

The cooccurrence of multiple sclerosis (MS) and oligodendroglioma is very rare. We present a 43-year-old male patient with the diagnosis of MS lasting for 14 years who developed seizures and right hemiparesis; cerebral MRI revealed an already known extensive lesion, previously misdiagnosed as tumefactive demyelinating lesion. Cerebral biopsy leads to oligodendroglioma diagnosis, successfully treated with radiotherapy. The diagnosis of a brain tumor in a MS patient is challenging. The atypical clinical and radiological features are the key for accurate diagnosis. In such cases, a brain tumor has to be kept in mind no matter how rare this association is.
Vascular Fluorescence Imaging Control for Complex Renal Artery Aneurysm Repair Using Laparoscopic Nephrectomy and Autotransplantation
Authors: Tozzi Matteo , Boni Luigi , Soldini Gabriele , Franchin Marco , Piffaretti Gabriele
Published: August 2014

Intraoperative fluorescent imaging using indocyanine green enables vascular surgeons to confirm the location and states of the reconstructed vessels during surgery. Complex renal artery aneurysm repair involving second order branch vessels has been performed with different techniques. We present a case of ex vivo repair and autotransplantation combining the advantages of minimally invasive surgery and indocyanine green enhanced fluorescence imaging to facilitate vascular anatomy recognition and visualization of organ reperfusion.
Efficacy of Germinated Cereals as Bait Carrier for Zinc Phosphide and Bromadiolone against Field and Commensal Rodent Pests: A Laboratory Evaluation
Authors: Sakthivel P. , Neelanarayanan P.
Published: August 2014

Both sexes of rodent pests such as Bandicota bengalensis, Millardia meltada, Mus booduga, and Rattus rattus were subjected to toxicity tests (acute rodenticide: 1.5% and 2% zinc phosphide and chronic rodenticide: bromadiolone (0.005%), under no-choice and choice tests) by using their preferred germinated cereals, namely, paddy, pearl millet, and finger millet, as bait base, individually. The results indicated that the poison baits in the germinated cereals induced all the chosen four species of rodent pests to consume greater quantities of bait perhaps due to the bait carrier’s palatability and texture. Besides these, the chosen three germinated cereals proved themselves that they are also capable of acting as suitable bait base for both selected rodenticides in bringing maximum mortality among the tested rodent pests under both no-choice and choice tests. Therefore, these germinated cereals may be recommended as a bait carrier for both zinc phosphide (2%) and bromadiolone (0.005%) poisons for the control of all these four species of rodent pests under field conditions. However, this requires field based trials with rodenticides for making a final recommendation.
Cytotoxicity Comparison of the Nanoparticles Deposited on Latex Rubber Bands between the Original and Stretched State
Authors: Lee Jung-Hwan , Lee Eun-Jung , Kwon Jae-Sung , Hwang Chung-Ju , Kim Kyoung-Nam
Published: August 2014

Understanding the biocompatibility of nanoparticles in dental materials is essential for their safe usage in the oral cavity. In this study, we investigated whether nanoparticles deposited on orthodontic latex rubber bands are involved in the induction of cytotoxicity. A method of stretching to three times (“3L”) the length of the latex rubber bands was employed to detach the particles using the original length (“L”) for comparison. The cytotoxicity tests were performed on extracts with mouse fibroblasts (L929) and human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ion chromatography, elemental analysis, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) were performed to detect the harmful components in the extracts from rubber bands. There was a significant decrease in the cell viability in the “L” samples compared with the “3L” samples (P < 0.05) in the L929 and HGF cells. This was due to the Ni single crystal nanoparticles (~50nm) from the inner surface of “L” samples that were detached in the “3L” samples as well as the Zn ion (~9 ppm) detected in the extract. This study revealed that the Ni nanoparticles, as well as Zn ions, were involved in the induction of cytotoxicity from the latex rubber bands.